Does Combination Matter? A Latent Profile Analysis of Experiences with (Non-)Digital Learning Offers and Basic Need Satisfaction at Work

Abstract

In a digitalized world of work, learning is essential for employees. Organizations provide a variety of learning offers (i.e., offline classroom-based learning, e-learning, and virtual classroom-based learning). However, employees rarely use just one offer, but rather all offers to varying degrees, depending on individual opportunities and needs. We move away from a static view of learning offers and instead use a person-centered approach. The results of a latent profile analysis show that six Experiences with Learning Offers (ExLO) profiles exist. Based on Self Determination Theory, we further explore the research question of the extent to which ExLO profiles are related to competence, autonomy, and relatedness need satisfaction at work. In particular, the most frequently represented profile, Versatile High Frequency Learners, shows the highest mean scores on the three basic need satisfaction facets and the strongest correlations with these facets. Implications for HR development practice and (longitudinal) research are discussed.