Transfer of learning to the workplace and training impact: The Asturian Institute of Public Administration training program

Abstract

Objectives: To help increase the percentage of organizations –specifically within the public sector– that systematically evaluate the continuous training provided to their staff, looking beyond mere participant satisfaction or the simple acquisition of knowledge. We have thus delved into more complex levels of evaluation, focusing on the application of acquired knowledge in the workplace and the organizational changes resulting from staff training at the Asturian Institute of Public Administration. The ultimate value of training evaluation in “learning organizations” is to serve as a foundation for decision-making and continuous improvement. Methodology: Following an analysis of the theoretical framework and the current state of the art, we implemented a three-part experimental design that considers the perspectives of key stakeholder within the organization: first, the training participants (public sector staff); second, managers with supervisory responsibilities; and finally, a comparison of both groups’ views regarding the transfer of learning to the workplace and the training’s impact on the organization. Results: There is a consensus among both trainees and their superiors in positively valuing the training for providing new, job-relevant knowledge and skills, as well as for its positive impact on performance. Greater variability was observed in both groups regarding aspects specific to individual job roles. An analysis of significant differences between the two groups’ perceptions revealed that superiors hold a more optimistic view regarding the suitability, environment, and support for transferring learning to the workplace. We also investigated the obstacles staff faced when attempting to apply within their work environments the knowledge they had acquired by training. Conclusions: Through this examination of the perceptions held by trainees and their superiors –regarding the application of the training received, its impact on the organization, and the conditions enabling such application– we lay the groundwork for a more in-depth analysis, consistent with existing literature and the data presented in this study.