The Learning Transfer of Dementia Training Program Participants: Its Antecedents and Mediating Effect on the Job Competency of Geriatric Caregivers

Abstract

This study examined how learning transfer and its antecedents impacted job competency among geriatric caregivers who underwent dementia training. The dementia training program of the National Health Insurance Service of South Korea was selected for this study. The participants included caregivers who provided care to patients with dementia at 3–12 months post-training. A hierarchical regression analysis was used to verify the research model. The results are summarized as follows: First, transfer opportunity and transfer intention were antecedent variables with a statistically significant positive effect on the near transfer of learning. Second, self-efficacy, the instructor’s role, and transfer intention were antecedent variables with a statistically significant positive effect on the far transfer of learning. Third, the near transfer of learning had a statistically significant effect on all six competency variables (communication, problem solving, interpersonal relationships, skills, self-development, and work ethics). Fourth, the far transfer of learning had a statistically significant static effect on all six competency variables, although the size of the influence on competency enhancement was relatively small compared with the near transfer of learning. This study confirmed the effects of various transfer climate-related variables in a training program on job competency, suggesting that the learning transfer of caregivers who underwent dementia training is a significant mediating variable. The limitations of this study and directions for future research are also discussed. The learning transfer of caregivers who underwent this training enhanced their job competencies.