Past research has indicated that mental models codify our experiences and guide our future behavior. In fact, some scholars have defined learning as the process of formulating and updating mental models. Although the vast majority of learning is achieved through explicit learning mechanisms (e.g. training sessions), the opportunity exists for learning in all moments of work experiences. The purpose of this paper is to present a theoretical frame work to explain what factors create the greatest opportunity to learn from weak situational experiences and therefore increase the overall richness of one's mental models and, in turn, job knowledge