The transfer of knowledge and the problems of identity in a managed and online context

The purpose of this article is to look into the social aspect of learning, and in particular how the construction of identity influences the transfer of knowledge in a managed and online context. The relationship between the ‘old-timer’ and the ‘newcomer’ is given special consideration through a qualitative study of the Norwegian Labour Inspection Authority. The study shows that inspectors construct their identity and categorize others in a way that creates barriers to the transfer of knowledge, constructions that are influenced by managerial participation. This article contributes to our understanding of how social aspects influence the transfer of knowledge between old-timers and newcomers in a managed and online context.