Learning Culture and Innovative Work Behaviour: Does Attitude Toward Change Matter?

Abstract

Purpose: This empirical research aimed to analyze the mediating role of attitude toward change (ATC) on the relationship between the learning organization dimensions (LODs) and innovative work behaviour (IWB) among academics with the rank of professor in Malaysian public higher education institutions (HEIs). Theoretical framework: Organizational effectiveness, leading to sustainable goal development to happen swiftly, requires an attitude toward change (ATC) that leads to IWB among the institutional members who are undoubtedly already in a learning culture with supporting milieus. Design/methodology/approach: 366 valid survey responses were collected using self-administered questionnaires delivered through the online survey with professors serving Malaysian public HEIs as target respondents. The study used Partial Least Square Structural Equation Modeling (PLS‐SEM) for exploratory data analysis and hypothesis testing. Findings: The results indicate that four LODs, systems connection, strategic leadership, continuous learning and dialogue and inquiry, significantly affect IWB in the presence of ATC as a mediator. On the other hand, ATC cannot mediate the outcome of IWB substantially, testing for the following exogenous variables: team level of learning, and two different dimensions of learning at the organization level, embedded system and empowerment. Research, Practical & Social implications: This study can be instructive for HEIs policymakers and those charged with institutional change and development. The study found that the HEIs’ effort in creating dynamic continuous learning opportunities and endless action in creating a culture of enthusiasm for questioning, timely feedback, and research enhanced the IWB through the upshot of ATC. At the structural level, encouraging active participation and contributions to global intelligence and learning-oriented leadership marks the progress of the IWB. The capacity of the HEIs to integrate people and structures ultimately reaches healthier work behaviour necessary for the present needs of creative educational institutions. Practical implications and future research opportunities are in this empirical paper. Originality/value: The study empirically supports the strength of measures used to gauge the LODs, ATC and IWB. The mediating effects of ATC are substantial, with solid research evidence to suggest it is essential to identify what influences employee attitudes to change to facilitate and optimize employee receptiveness to change and, therefore, the likely success of HEIs change.