Training Transfer: Does Training Design Preserve Training Memory?

Abstract

Billions of dollars are lost by low application of ineffective training. Fast declination of training memory may contribute this loss. The present study uses theoretical examinations via a conceptual model to examine the relationship between training memory and transfer behaviour. Training design, training retention (training memory), and training transfer are the study variables. The study population, is the federal ministries in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), was assessed via random sampling. Data were collected by a cross-sectional approach via questionnaires. Back-translation (English to Arabic), a pre-test, and a pilot test were applied to ensure that any modifications of the questionnaire items were precise and effective. The study was analysed via PLS-SEM. Based on the results, all of the study’s hypotheses were accepted, and significant relationships were revealed between the study variables. Training design is highly correlated with training retention, i.e., a premium training design will lead to a high preservation of the knowledge and skills gained from the training programme. Due to the low correlation between training retention and training transfer, the training retention was considered a secondary contributor of applying training to the work environment. If mangers and practitioners tend to achieve successful training transfer, their efforts should concentrate on adopting modern training design techniques, which could sufficiently maintain the training memory and increase training transfer.