An empirical study of training transfer in an apprenticeship programme for conducive workforce

ABSTRACT

Many organisations invest heavily in training. However, it is argued that only a small portion of what is learnt from training is transferred to the workplace. Using an extended Training Transfer Model, the paper examines the factors that influence the transfer of training within an apprenticeship program. In-depth semi-structured interviews with participants who had undergone the apprenticeship programme were carried out. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis, and bibliographic analysis was performed to highlight the topic’s significance and development for future research directions. The findings reveal that trainee characteristics, training design and work environment influence training transfer. Trainees with high cognitive ability, self-efficacy and motivation, who participated in a well-designed training programme and were supported by a conducive work environment, demonstrate positive transfer of training.

KEYWORDS:

• Training transfer
• trainee characteristics
• training design
• work environment

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.