Predictors of motivation to learn when training is mandatory

Few studies have focused on the individual and organisational factors that predict motivation to learn when training is mandatory. This study addressed the overall predictability of motivation to learn from a range of individual and organisational variables as well as whether organisational commitment mediated the relationships between the other predictors and motivation to learn. Only organisational commitment was able to account for a significant portion of the variance in motivation to learn. The collective influence of work locus of control, perceived benefits of training, negative transfer climate, and supervisor support on motivation to learn was entirely mediated by organisational commitment. Pre-training interventions should focus on enhancing the perceived benefits of mandatory training which may positively influence employees’ level of commitment to the organisation and pre-training motivation to learn.