An Aspect of Industrial Training in the Federal Republic of Germany: sociological considerations on the role of the meister

Abstract

Summary The technical training and education of the young is now a major focus of Government concern. A number of European systems (particularly the West German) have been examined by bodies acting on behalf of, or at the behest of, the Government. One of the most interesting methods of industrial training in West Germany is the meistersystem. The meisteror industrial tutor (a position enshrined in German statute and practice) is a senior craftsman responsible throughout German industry for a considerable amount of the regulation of technical training of young skilled workers. The meistersystem might prove to be one ‘model’ for British industrial training and as such the role of the meisteris worthy of sociological consideration. The paper presents an outline of who the meisteris, what he or she does; and some sociological considerations on the historical development and contemporary function of the meisterare put forward. Finally, a brief conclusion on the applicability of the meistersystem to Britain is...