Do Opportunities for Formal Learning Stimulate Follow-Up Participation in Informal Learning? A Three-Wave Study
研究了正式学习机会如何促进员工短期和长期的非正式学习参与，发现人力资源管理系统的强度会增强这种促进作用，对职业教育管理者有参考价值。
Informal learning is an important source of employee adaptability and expertise, yet it is unclear how it may be encouraged through human resource management (HRM) practices. In this study, we investigate how opportunities for formal learning may be used to stimulate short- and long-term participation in informal learning. In addition, we examine whether HRM system strength intensifies the relationship between opportunities for formal learning and informal learning. Using a sample of 430 respondents in 52 teams within six Dutch vocational and educational training schools, we adopt a longitudinal design to examine two types of autonomous informal learning activities (reflection and keeping up to date), and three collaborative activities (asking for feedback, knowledge sharing and innovative behavior) over two years. Opportunity for formal learning was positively related to short- and long-term participation in informal learning activities, with the exception of long-term innovation. Moreover, HRM system strength intensified these relationships. Managerial implications of these findings for encouraging informal learning activities at work are discussed. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.