Measuring the Effectiveness of Transfer of Learning Constructs And
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MEASURING THE EFFECTIVENESS OF TRANSFER OF LEARNING CONSTRUCTS AND INTENT TO TRANSFER IN A SIMULATION-BASED LEADERSHIP TRAINING PROGRAM Joanne W. Hix, B.A., MBA Dissertation Prepared for the Degree of DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY UNIVERSITY OF NORTH TEXAS May 2013 APPROVED: Jeff Allen, Major Professor Kim Nimon, Committee Member Mark Davis, Committee Member Michael J. Spector, Chair of the Department of Learning Technologies Herman L. Totten, Dean of the College of Information Mark Wardell, Dean of the Toulouse Graduate School Hix, Joanne W. Measuring the Effectiveness of Transfer of Learning Constructs and Intent to Transfer in a Simulation-Based Leadership Training Program. Doctor of Philosophy (Applied Technology and Performance Improvement), May 2013, 112 pp., 6 tables, references, 229 titles. The purpose of business training programs is to improve performance, which improved performance changes leadership behaviors based on the knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs) learned in training. One of the most common criticisms of leadership training is the tendency to focus on teaching theory but not on applying theory into practice, that is, transfer of learning. Research usually ends at the point of identifying, describing, or measuring factors that influence transfer. Ongoing research must identify what constructs in the transfer of learning process should be effectively changed or managed. There is a gap in research on the degree to which performance improvement through KSAs learned in a simulation training program actually transfer to the work environment. Additional research is needed that examines the relationship between transfer of learning and intent to transfer, which are critical outcomes in the field of human resource management and development. The purpose of the study was to examine the relationship between intent to transfer and four constructs in the transfer of learning process during a simulation-based leadership training program. Participants completed self-report assessments that measured the relationships between intent to transfer and four constructs: ability, motivation, work environment, and learner readiness. A correlational design was administered using a population of mid-level managers in a telecommunications organization. Copyright 2013 by Joanne W. Hix ii ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS The process of earning this degree has been dependent on many individuals who assisted in preparation for and completion of my dissertation through unlimited amounts of love, sacrifice, support, and confidence. I wish to thank my dissertation chair, Professor Jeff Allen, who provided guidance and continued support and encouragement. I also thank the following: My committee members, Professors Mark Davis and Kim Nimon, who held me to high standards of professionalism and performance. My husband and best friend, Quentin Hix, who sacrificed so many weekends, prepared so many meals, and entertained our youngest daughter without complaint. He provided much needed encouragement and unwaivering faith in me. My daughter Heather Dutton, son-in-law Dr. Brett Dutton, son J.D. Hix, and daughter-in-law Amber Hix for their continued support and encouragement. For our youngest daughter Jamey Hix, who sacrificed so much mommy time and faithfully studied beside me. Randy Mase, Sr. Manager, Human Resources Learning & Development, for allowing me to conduct research to further learning and development programs. Professor Reid Bates for prompt responses to numerous LTSI questions and resources. Professor Sue Kavli, who provided tutoring during the beginning statistics courses. Professor Christina Chen, who assisted with my understanding of statistical analysis. Drs. Erin MaLaughlin, Patricia and Earl Crisp, personal friends, who sent countless text messages and emails with encouragement for me in writing the dissertation. Mariya Gavrilova Aquilar, personal friend, editor, and resource person for her unconditional support and faith in my ability to complete the dissertation. Amanda Kraha for her availability, encouragement, and experience in coding data, SPSS, and content clarity. iii TABLE OF CONTENTS Page ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS ........................................................................................................... iii LIST OF TABLES ........................................................................................................................ vii CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION ...................................................................................................1 Need for the Study ...............................................................................................................2 Theoretical Framework ........................................................................................................3 Purpose of the Study ............................................................................................................5 Research Question ...............................................................................................................7 Limitations ...........................................................................................................................7 Delimitations ........................................................................................................................9 Definition of Terms..............................................................................................................9 Summary ............................................................................................................................10 CHAPTER 2: LITERATURE REVIEW .....................................................................................12 The Learning Process .........................................................................................................12 Learning Theories and Model ............................................................................................13 Training Design and Objectives.........................................................................................20 Linking Learning Theories to Simulations ........................................................................34 Transfer of Learning and Improved Performance .............................................................42 Summary ............................................................................................................................44 CHAPTER 3: METHODOLOGY ................................................................................................46 Research Design.................................................................................................................46 Sample................................................................................................................................46 iv Dependent and Independent Variables ..............................................................................47 Research Question .............................................................................................................47 Program ..............................................................................................................................48 Instrument ..........................................................................................................................49 Demographic Data .............................................................................................................54 Data Collection Procedures ................................................................................................55 Data Analysis .....................................................................................................................56 Summary ............................................................................................................................57 CHAPTER 4: RESULTS ..............................................................................................................58 Findings..............................................................................................................................58 Demographics ....................................................................................................................58 Reliability ...........................................................................................................................59 Descriptive Statistics ..........................................................................................................60 Research Question Analysis ..............................................................................................62 Comparison of Studies .......................................................................................................65 Qualitative Data .................................................................................................................66 Summary ............................................................................................................................69 CHAPTER 5: OVERVIEW ..........................................................................................................71 Constraints to Data .............................................................................................................71 Post Hoc Analysis ..............................................................................................................73 Summary of Findings .........................................................................................................73