How Professionals Learn: A Mixed-Method Study on Organizational Learning Climate, Social Informal Learning, and Employability

• In Event: Learning Processes and Professional Development in Professions Education: Considering Identity, Research, and Environments

Abstract

This study examines what social informal learning (SIL) activities employees engage in and what the role of organizational learning climate (OLC) is for learning and employability competences. Our questionnaire study (Study 1) shows that proactive seeking for information occurs most often among professionals. Simultaneously, we find that OLC is important for their engagement in proactive SIL activities. Additionally, undertaking these activities relates to a higher level of employability. We deepen our research by qualitatively exploring other SIL activities (Study 2). Our findings emphasize the occurrence of information and feedback exchange, but also highlights other activities. This study contributes not only to existing literature by unravelling SIL, but also by studying the role of OLC for SIL and employability.

Authors

• Samantha Crans, Maastricht University

• Maike Gerken, Maastricht University

• Simon Beausaert, Maastricht University

• Mien Segers, Maastricht University