Formal learning and organizational competitiveness: the mediating role of transfer of learning and the moderating role of job autonomy and HR department support

Abstract: The purpose of this study is to examine the role of job resources that support the transfer of formal learning and eventually increase organizational competitiveness. We drew on PROCESS macro Model 21 to examine the moderating effect of job autonomy and HR support on the mediating effect of transfer of learning on the relationship between formal learning and organizational competitiveness. The results showed that formal learning indirectly affects organizational competitiveness via the transfer of learning. The relationship between formal learning and transfer of learning was strengthened when there were high levels of job autonomy. The relationship between the transfer of learning and organizational competitiveness was strengthened when there were high levels of HR support. Overall, the moderation of the indirect effect of formal learning by job autonomy does differ among the levels of HR support. This study verified the role of job resources that an organization can provide to facilitate employees’ transfer of formal learning and maximize the effectiveness of the transfer of learning for organizational competitiveness. This study contributes to human resource practitioners considering job design and support to promote the effectiveness of formal learning and transfer of learning for organizational competitiveness.