The Learning Transfer System Inventory (LTSI) in Ukraine

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this research is to expand cross‐cultural research and validate the Learning Transfer System Inventory in Ukraine. The researchers seek to translate the LTSI into Ukrainian and investigate the internal structure of this translated version of the questionnaire.Design/methodology/approachThe LTSI is translated into Ukrainian using a rigorous translation methodology. The instrument was distributed to 511 (430 – usable data) individuals from various organizations throughout Ukraine. The exploratory factor analysis (common factor analysis with oblique rotation) was used to analyze the survey data.FindingsThe factor structure of the Ukrainian version of the LTSI (ULTSI) paralleled that of the original instrument. Most items loaded on appropriate factors with loadings over 0.4. Two factors (Opportunity to Use Learning and Performance‐Outcomes Expectations) did not emerge as clearly as in the original instrument and require further research.Research limitations/implicationsThe instrument was distributed to a convenience sample which limits the external validity of the study. Some translation issues may have possibly influenced low loadings for few items. The questionnaires distributed in the Eastern part of Ukraine were problematic because the population there is mostly Russian‐speaking while the instruments were in Ukrainian. The study provides evidence of construct validity of the LTSI in the Ukrainian business environment. With the limitations outlined above further research can address translation issues and language barrier problems. Some items may be included that will suit the Ukrainian environment better, which may resolve problems in two factors mentioned above. New methods of instrument translation could be utilized in future as well as alternative statistical analyses (Confirmatory Factor Analysis).Practical implicationsThe ULTSI is now one of the first and few HRD tools in Ukraine. It can be used to assess the transfer climate in Ukrainian organizations in order to maximize the positive outcomes of the investment in training. As a diagnostic tool the ULTSI can provide necessary information about the environmental and organizational forces that are at play in a given organization, and it can help improve the results of training interventions.Originality/valueThis cross‐cultural study is one of the first efforts in existence to bridge the Ukrainian and Western cultures in terms of HRD. It provides a possibility for HRD methodology and theory to be introduced in Ukrainian businesses. At the same time, the study provides evidence of the construct validity and sound structure of the LTSI.