Abstract
Studies indicate that training for forestry workers should combine on-the-job training (OJT) and step-by-step off-the-job trainig (OffJT). We are interested in designing a training system that constantly sets out skill levels in a step-by-step manner, and that is adapted to the workers' skill-acquiring processes. In this study, we conducted a questionnaire survey to elucidate forestry workers' current status concerning knowledge and skill training. Then, we classified their knowledge and skills into those acquired through OJT and OffJT, and clarified the processes by which they actually acquired knowledge and skills. The results showed that OffJT provided a basis for learning, and OJT taught practical and applied skills. It was apparent that workers learned in a progression from planting and caring work through to thinning and logging work over about three years. In addition, we considered the effect of the respondents' circumstances, and found a significant difference in the learning processes according to the number and variety of machines owned; we also designed training systems adapted to six different forestry situations.
