Determinants of Transfer of Training: A Comprehensive Literature Review

Abstract

Investments in training measures can only be considered effective if the transfer of the learned contents to practical situations is continuously successful. In this context the scientific and professional discourse regarding the effectiveness of further education, especially regarding transfer of training, has intensifi ed considerably. This analysis provides a systematic and comprehensive overview of the current state of international empirical research regarding major determinants of transfer of training in the context of formalized further vocational training. Our review of literature differentiates the most important determinants on the organizational level of the characteristics of the work environment, the learning field level of measure-specific characteristics, as well as characteristics of participants on the individual level. Decades of transfer research brings forth a wealth of information regarding determinants which influence the transfer of training. The current analysis systematizes these results and clarifies that research regarding the determinants of the process of transfer of training identifies positive relationships at the three levels. In particular, the question of which determinants positively influence the success of transfer of training is well-studied for the individual level. The article shows that there is still a research deficit concerning the determinants of transfer of training at the learning field and organizational level. There is particular need for research regarding the dimensions of the determinants at the three levels. Finally, in this context this article identifies promising directions for future research.