Motivation to transfer soft skills training: a systematic literature review

Abstract

PurposeThis paper aims to synthesize existing knowledge on trainee motivation to transfer (MTT) soft skills training through a systematic literature review (SLR).Design/methodology/approachBy applying a rigorous reproducible process, this SLR identified a total of 33 peer-reviewed articles on MTT in soft skills training.FindingsThe systematic review offers several important findings. First, research on MTT has accelerated in the recent past with studies conducted in varied geographic contexts. Second, MTT has been operationalized and measured as an antecedent and mediator of training transfer as well as an outcome itself is sampled papers. Third, MTT is recognized as critical in facilitating the transfer of soft skills. Finally, an investigation of empirical studies helped locate gaps in research methodologies, measurement of MTT and finally its predictors.Research limitations/implicationsThe study is limited by the search string and its choice of peer-reviewed articles published in the English language only.Originality/valueIn the absence of systematic reviews on MTT in the context of soft skill, the study contributes immensely by providing an updated, cogent summarization of extant work and potential directions for future research/practice.