Motivational Perspectives in Work Based Learning: A Micro Model

Abstract

This thesis develops a micro-model of employee perspectives in the Work-Based Learning (WBL)- motivation process. WBL plays a vital part in promoting employer/employee adaptability in today's dynamic climate. Individual motivation is central to successful WBL, underpinning individual learning, upon which organisational learning is founded. There were three key stages in model construction. Stage one constructed an initial WBL-motivation model through exploration of employer and employee perspectives of WBL; utilising six focus groups with employees (n=34) and semi structured interviews with employer representatives (senior training managers, n=3). Participants were drawn from three large financial organísations. Stage two further developed and refined model factors, focusing on the employee perspective. A research-specific motivation questionnaire was developed to assess model factors, items being based on stage one participant accounts. Following questionnaire completion by cohoñ one (n=100, full-time employees from a range of organisations), factors were refined using Principal Components Analysis and the questionnaire modified accordingly; following questionnaire completion by cohort two (n=98, from two SMEs), factors were confirmed using Alpha Factor Analysis and used to modify the model. Stage three identified significant factors and tested the inter-factor relationships in the WBL motivation model by entering composite scores from the research-specific questionnaire into Hierarchical Multiple Regression Analysis (participants n=96, from two SMEs). A micro-model of employee perspectives in the WBL-motivation process was produced representing salient motivational factors (valued outcomes, instrumentality, perceptions of the organisation, goal setting, goal acceptance and satisfaction) and emphasising the complexity of inter-factor relationships. This model represents the major contribution of this thesis to current theory and practice: Furthering theoretical understanding of employee motivation in WBL, and raising employer/employee awareness of salient issues, which can be used to inform WBL practice and development. This study contributes to methodology through construction of a questionnaire for WBL-motivation evaluation suitable for researchers and practitioners. Suggestions for future model development are discussed.