Frank Blank

Doctoral Dissertation Announcement

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Candidate: Richard Rashid Kazbour

Degree of: Doctor of Philosophy

Department: Psychology

Title: Evaluating the Impact of a Performance Based Methodology on Transfer of Training

Committee:
Dr. Heather McGee, Chair
Dr. John Austin
Dr. Ron VanHouten
Dr. Robert Brinkerhoff

Date: Monday, June 27, 2011 10:00 a.m. to Noon
3723 Wood Hall

Abstract:
Transfer of training is the degree to which trainees can apply the knowledge, skills, and attitudes gained in training to the job (Brinkerhoff & Apking, 2001; Wexley & Latham, 1981). Currently only between 5% and 20% of what is learned in training is ever applied on the job (Brinkerhoff, 2006; Broad, 2000; Fitzpatrick, 2001; Mooney & Brinkerhoff, 2008; Tannenbaum & Yulk, 1992). Until recently, most transfer research has focused on what happens in the formal training environment (Brinkerhoff & Montesino, 1995; Holton, Bates, Seyler, & Carvalho, 2003; Noe, 1986; Saks & Belcourt, 2006). Currently, little is known about the effects of work environment factors such as support, feedback, and goal setting on training transfer.
This study utilized a between groups experimental design using surveys, interviews, and behavioral measures to evaluate the impact of performance based work environment factors on training transfer. Results indicated that participants in the experimental group reported a higher level of training transfer than those in the control group. These findings suggest that a performance based approach to training can be an effective method to increase the likelihood that employees transfer training knowledge to the job context. The implications of these findings are discussed.