A study examined challenges associated with investigating the role and occupational identity of learning practitioners who operate within the organizational as opposed to the educational institution context. These challenges include the following: (1) naming this group of organizational practitioners; (2) distribution of learning responsibilities; (3) diversity of theoretical bases for practice; (4) diverse models of organizational practice; (5) reported shifts in prerequisite competences of practice; and (6) new understanding of learning. The study shows that a new type of learning practitioner is emerging in organizational context. Research challenges arising at least in part from the shifting nature of this comparatively unregulated field of practice exist and need to be addressed. Such research could be seen as contributing a better understanding of the learning that is occurring in organizations and in institutions contributing to work force capability building as a basis for the ongoing development of professionals who work in this area. (Contains 33 references.) (KC)