The longitudinal benefits of learning in the workplace: A study among employees, teachers, managers and clients in Dutch health care institutions

According to research workplace learning can increase knowledge, skills and attitudes among employees. Many organizations in the Dutch Healthcare system are therefore investing in workplace learning programs. This study evaluates the outcomes from participation on a Level 3 qualification for the care of vulnerable adults in the Netherlands. It uses a pre- and post-test design to measure the effects of training on employability and subsequently on employees’ well-being and clients’ quality of life. Results among 116 employees in three health care institutions, their managers and instructors and 104 of their clients demonstrates that learning in the workplace results in improved competencies, language skills and employability of employees. According to the results employees self report an improvement in competence from 36% to 44%. Trainers on the program reported an increase from 69% to 98%. Operational managers were slightly less impressed, reporting an increase in competence from 21% to 50%. Employees also experienced an increase in employability, from 38% to 41%. In order to test whether these results were sustainable, there was a post-test measure with 40% of the employees 30 weeks later. As a result 70% to 100% of the employees experienced an increase or stability on the outcome of the learning process at the workplace. Most of the benefits of workplace learning therefore seem permanent. Despite these positive results, it was not possible to discover which elements of the learning program created the most positive outcomes. However the results indicate that workplace learning is important in developing knowledge, skills, attitude and competencies for employees. Further research may identify specific success factors of the learning environment.