Transfer Behaviour: Is Intention or Memory First? A Model of the Nearest Training Transfer Antecedents

Abstract

In real life, there is a relationship between a person’s intention and memory. In addition, both are crucial antecedents of behaviour. This study puts this concept under empirical analysis. Additionally, high loss of training memory (50% after 24 hours) is a critical problem. Therefore, a weak understanding of intention and memory unity (interchangeable relationship) would exaggerate the transfer behaviour problem. It should be noted that billions of dollars are lost because of the low training implications (transfer). In that context, the researchers raise the question of ‘what comes first: intention or memory?’ and conduct a holistic statistical analysis. They apply a quantitative method (self-report survey) to test five hypotheses of this study’s variables: (i) intention to transfer (behaviour), (ii) training retention (memory), (iii) training transfer (behaviour). The study participants are 425 (population = 52,000) governmental (ministries) employees. The researchers derive and adapt the study questionnaire from reliable resources. They apply statistical analysis using PLS-SEM – SmartPLS software 3.0. All five hypotheses are accepted. This shows a highly interchangeable role of intention and memory against behaviour. However, the results analysis reveals that intention comes first, with a prominent presence of memory. Practically, it is suitable to understand intention and memory in combination, especially in the design phase. This would enhance the professionalism of behaviour control and effectiveness. For the theoretical tendency of the current study, the managerial implication is challenging. However, it opens the door for other interested researchers to specify a clear and smart solution for this case. In addition, this study has several values. It reconciles two theories in different fields: transfer model (training) with theory of planned behaviour (psychology). Mainly, it empirically describes the relationship between the most important behaviour antecedents (intention and memory). It helps to solve two practical problems: low training implication and high loss of training memory.