Acculturation Disparity Analysis Model (ADAM): Experts and Apprentices

Abstract

As apprentices begin the long journey that will ultimately prepare them to become the respected peers of their expert counterparts, the acculturation process can be detrimental to their success under steep learning curves and strict timelines. Many acculturation models exist, but there appears to be a gap in the underpinning foundational knowledge-base of the acculturation process, specifically between experts and their apprentices. A new and powerful theoretical framework named the Acculturation Disparity Analysis Model (ADAM) was generated from interview data and subsequently combined with two theoretical lenses. This model can serve as a mechanism to forecast acculturative outcomes between experts and apprentices and also as a restructuring tool for organizational policies to make the most of the acculturation experience. Though expanding theory, the ADAM should be recognized as a generalized model to stimulate further qualitative research in the robust and exciting field of acculturation approaches.