Causative effects of motivation to transfer learning among relational dyads: the test of a model

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to validate multiplicative cycle that exists between the job readiness and satisfaction model explored by Matthews et al. (2018), the satisfaction and performance paradigmatic nuances analyzed by Judge et al. (2001) and Gu and Chi (2009), in addition to the expectancy model theorized by Vroom (1964). The motivation to transfer learning serves as a conveyable variable transmitted within a learning continuum that sustains cyclical outputs.

Design/methodology/approach

An archetype to explore the connection between the three hypothesized theories is created through a neural network program. Exploring this connection develops deeper understandings of the derivatives of employee motivation as it pertains to its effect on readiness, satisfaction, performance and achievement dyads. A detailed analysis of the literature leads to the hypothesis that the motivation to transfer learning creates a multiplicative effect among hypothesized relationships.

Findings

The neural network program scaffolds the proposed general belief that positive effects of transfer motives cause a cyclical effect that continues to perpetuate among hypothesized dyads. Conversely, if this motivation decreases or ceases among one or more dyads, the cyclical effect will retract and, eventually stop.

Originality/value

Based on the neurologic outcome, one central theme emerged: managers must offer opportunities to acquire knowledge through assistive mechanisms (i.e. training) by providing external stability through controlled channels that activates the motivation to transfer learning into new opportunities. The transference of this knowledge produces reconstructive growth opportunities through continuous learning thus increasing performance.

目的

本研究的目的、除了驗證弗魯姆 (Vroom) (1964) 建立的「期望模型」理論外，也去驗證存在於工作準備就緒與馬修斯等人 (Matthews et al.) (2018) 所探索的滿足感模型之間的倍增週期，及質治等人 (Judge et al.) (2001) 和古與池 (Gu & Chi) (2009) 所分析的滿足感及表現之範式細微差別。學習轉移的動機作為一個被傳送至學習漸變體內的可輸送變量而運作，而這個學習漸變體是會維持週期性的輸出的。

研究設計/方法/理念

透過神經網絡程序，創造一個用以探索這三個假設性理論之間的關係的原型。探究這些關係，會使我們更能深入了解僱員動機的衍生品，因這涉及僱員動機對準備就緒、滿足感、表現及功績二元體的影響。仔細分析文獻帶出了一個假設，就是: 學習轉移的動機會在各假設的關係裏創造一個倍增的效果。

研究結果

這個神經網絡程序續步闡釋了一個被倡議的普遍觀念，那就是轉移動機的正面影響會帶來一個在假設性的二元體中會繼續持續下去的週期性效應。相反地，如果這動機在一個或多個二元體中減弱或停止，這週期性效應將會撤回及最終停止。

研究的原創性／價值

基於神經病學的結果，一個核心主題浮現了， 就是：管理人員必須提供透過輔助機制 (就是說：培訓) 而獲取知識的機會。方法是給會引發把學習轉為新機會的動機之受控渠道、提供外在穩定性。這知識的轉移，透過不斷學習而創造重建的成長，表現因而得以提升。

Citation

Matthews, B., Daigle, J. and Cooper, J. (2020), "Causative effects of motivation to transfer learning among relational dyads: the test of a model", European Journal of Management and Business Economics, Vol. 29 No. 3, pp. 297-314. https://doi.org/10.1108/EJMBE-07-2019-0120

Introduction

Researchers have extensively studied instrumental modes of learning transference through intrinsic and extrinsic correlates (Deci and Ryan, 1985; Lepper et al., 2005), organizational learning culture (Egan et al., 2004), learner feedback (Islam, 2019). Noe (1986) defined the motivation to transfer learning as “the learner’s intended efforts to utilize skills and knowledge learned in training setting to a real-world work situation” (p. 743). Arguably, the impetus to transfer knowledge projects from the expectation that learners who convert training at work to explicit usefulness in pragmatic situations are more likely to be motivated. The successful application of newly acquired knowledge and skills elicits an attitudinal response associated with intrinsic precursors linked to self-determination theory (Baard et al., 2004) and expectancy theory (Vroom, 1964). To map a culminating destination, Elliott and Murayama (2008) pronounced instrumental and terminal values aligned with dimensionality based on a mastery-performance construct. Distinctively, mastery focuses on actual learning, and performance focuses on the execution of what is learned. This lends itself to Noe and Schmitt's (1986) definition of motivation as an impulsion to utilize knowledge and skills mastered during a training program on a job.

Separate research has investigated and has proposed needs theories that accent a drive to exceed intrapersonal benchmarks and meet performance outcomes (Elliott and Murayama, 2008; Kumar and Jauhari, 2016; Maslow, 1954; McClelland, 1961; Stahl, 1986). The pursuit of achievement assigns a valence or attractiveness to obtain an outcome more efficiently and robust than historically performed. While this pursuit is marred by a possible avoidance of perceived effortless or laborious tasks, the need for achievement can be linked to fear of failure. Conceptually, the need to achieve presents an inherent factor that drives expectancy and instrumentality used to influence effort and performance calculation and perceived outcomes, thus increasing job satisfaction (Vroom, 1964). At the substratum of need-based theory, the measurement of intrinsic and extrinsic sources has postured opposing effects focused on a singular dimension (Harter, 1981) until Herzberg et al. (1959) compartmentalized job satisfaction and job dissatisfaction into motivational and informational components. An amalgam of both polar effects concurrently identifies behavioral outcomes that measure emotional, physical and cognitive engagement.

While the literature contains exhaustive studies on correlative relationships between readiness and satisfaction (Hersey and Blanchard, 1982; Matthews et al., 2018), satisfaction and performance (Gu and Chi, 2009; Judge et al., 2001; Park et al., 2017) and performance and achievement (Vroom, 1964), no study can be found that captures the analysis of each dyad separately then interrelatedly links all coupled taxonomies to examine the nuanced effects of the motivation to transfer learning. It is also important to note that the repository of transfer research finds actionality within myriad academic disciplines (i.e. management, HRD, training); that is to say that trained employees can be categorized as learners (Baldwin and Ford, 1988; Clark et al., 1993; Lim and Johnson, 2002; van Merrienboer, 1997). This article aims to show the consequential recourses that exist among interlinked dyads when the motivation to transfer learning becomes an intervening force that drives convergent change throughout a controlled learning channel.

Literature review

The nature of the readiness-satisfaction dyad

Susanto (2008) defined employee readiness as a belief, intention and attitude regarding the extent to which change is needed. Armenakis et al. (1993) described readiness in terms of an employee's beliefs, attitudes and intentions. Fundamentally, readiness activities equip learners with knowledge and experience to manage and facilitate day-to-day work activities. While no singular constituent can be solely attributed to job satisfaction, employee readiness stipulated a unidirectional prominence that creates an affective or emotional response toward all facets of a job. Both Cunningham et al. (2002) and Tetenbaum (1998) posited that the readiness factor was a determining factor for successful organizational change.

Learners who had an active approach in resolving organizational problems scored highest in job readiness dimensions (Cunningham et al., 2002). Bussing et al. (1999) identified a positive correlation between job satisfaction and organizational learning theory. In the context of educational practices, contributory methods toward learning outcomes contain valid and reliable appraisals that mediate investment, increase motivation and maximize substance (Brill, 2016; Suen, 2014). Both Brill and Suen primarily focus on the procedural facilitation of learner feedback and significance of the feedback received. Job positions that place greater demands and offer a larger range of decision-making opportunities tend to show more readiness for organizational change (Shah et al., 2017). Messmer (2000) found that an intentional investment in work training and career development not only increases readiness but also contributes to employee retention.

Job satisfaction is not a static phenomenon and is influenced by job or work factors (Lam, 1995). The study by Walker and Campbell (2013) found that job readiness predicted job satisfaction and work engagement. Employee engagement serves as a learning process in which employee control personal behaviors and goals (Osborne and Hammoud, 2017). Additionally, this study revealed dimensions of job readiness and job satisfaction to act as mediators between job acumen and intention to stay. Job satisfaction is not a static phenomenon and is influenced by job or work factors (Lam, 1995). Other studies support readiness as a predictor in job satisfaction. A study by Walker and Campbell (2013) found job readiness predicted job satisfaction and work engagement. The study by Walker and Campbell found dimensions of job readiness and job satisfaction to act as mediators between organizational acumen and intention to stay. Hersey and Blanchard (1982) believed the consequential effect of employee readiness reflects a prescriptive model that granularly produces moderate levels of maturity through active participation in decision-making. Latif (2012) found that employee retention was majorly affected by employee-focused learning development. As learning and self-efficacy increases, they become more connected, satisfied and enthused about all facets of their job (employee readiness → job satisfaction).

The ideal relational construct that entails an autonomous and self-regulating culture within the readiness-satisfaction paradigm promotes development through delegation. According to Leana (1987), delegation promotes and encourages individual achievement by assigning individual responsibilities and authority to dependent employees. This construct is suitable for employees that view independence as an opportunity to utilize developmental mechanisms to make independent decisions. Accordingly, independence induces an acuity of sense-making systems that render cultural regulation inadequate and intentionally places learners in prescriptive learning climates that arouses cognitive growth and problem-solving dexterity.

Noe and Schmitt, 1986 posited that learners develop an affinity toward knowledge acquired through formal and informal learning climates which can alter attitudes, interests, values and perceptions toward work groups and task structure. Readiness outcomes influence behavioral changes that shift motivation to apply knowledge gained through learning to job-specific context (Egan et al., 2004). Consequently, employee expends more time and effort, assumes greater responsibility, orients and identifies with the organization. Adversely, when learners resort to withdrawing from learning activities, hiding identities, ideas and feelings, and disengaging from institutional interests, performance decreases (Deci and Ryan, 1985).

The nature of the satisfaction-performance dyad

The relationship between job performance and job satisfaction is meaningful. In an organizational context, job satisfaction is expressed through emotional responses versus something that is observed (Luthans and Thomas, 1989). According to Fatima and Azam (2016), employees view job satisfaction as the extent that job-related intrinsic and extrinsic values, such as the position, payment, opportunities, peers, are met or exceeded. Scullen et al (2000) contented that job performance plays the most significant role in personnel decisions impacting pay, promotion and retention.

The relationship between job satisfaction and job performance has been heavily researched. The Hawthorne studies conducted in the 1930s provide a catalyst to link satisfaction to performance. Following the Hawthorne studies, Brayfield and Crockett (1955) reviewed satisfaction and performance studies and found an inconsequential relationship between satisfaction and performance. A meta-analysis conducted by Iaffaldano and Muchinsky (1985) reviewed 74 previously published studies found the relationship between satisfaction and performance to be relatively low. Alessandri et al. (2017) used a latent difference score model to analyze worker satisfaction and found satisfied workers had higher performance levels over more extended periods of time versus unsatisfied workers.

Other researchers have reported significant relationships between job satisfaction and performance (Telman and Unsal, 2004). Lawler and Porter (1967) found that high performance led to higher income, increased promotions and more employee reconciliation. Al-Aameri (2000) found that satisfied learners are imaginative, devoted and emotionally attached to their employers. This study attempts to provide needed evidence to link and supplement the relationship between job performance and job satisfaction.

Nature of the performance-achievement dyad

Previous research supports employee satisfaction is positively correlated with employee-perceived organizational justice that includes the performance appraisal process (Levy and Williams, 1998). Adams (1963) interpreted employee obligation to remain with an organization is higher when there is a perceived positive relationship between one's performance effort and the performance rating. An employee's vantage point of an organization is based on individual reflections of self-beliefs. Learners use different strategies and activities to achieve performance and organizational goals. Morrow (1983) suggested that specific leadership strategies can promote an employee's self-achievement. Chi et al. (2008) postulated effective leaders motivate learners and support them to achieve and attain professional goals. Chi et al. found that employee satisfaction and organizational commitment increased when a leader's assessment of employee performance aligns with employee self-performance and achievement.

Garg and Rastogi (2006) conjectured that more learning opportunities provide learners with the knowledge needed to perform to confront global challenges. Demonstrative opportunities correlated with achievement standards become normative in content but prescriptive in context. Implicitly, the contextual modality becomes the normative benchmark based on perceived competence, which is antecedent to achievement goals (Elliot and Murayama, 2008). Several authors (Judge et al., 2001) have reconceptualized job performance and job satisfaction typologies and derived that performance leads to satisfying value outcomes. Vroom (1964) theorized a probable perception that an exerted amount of effort produces an achievable level of performance based on conscious expectancy calculations. Locke and Latham (2000) deduced that high objectives and high expectations of success intensify efforts toward achievement based on the goals and needs of the individual (Robbins et al., 2017). Knowles (1969) suggested that the need for achievement results from an amalgamation of affective response and elevated performance levels. Therefore, if job satisfaction is based on how one feels about all aspects of a job (Ellickson and Logsdon, 2002), intrinsic and extrinsic sources have a significant causal effect on overall job satisfaction and motivation.

Learners have the tendency to adopt feelings of boredom and futility if performance goals have been exhausted and learning potentialities are depleted, due to reducing or eliminating all deficiencies with no relevant control mechanisms, thus becoming less dependent of growth externalities. In other words, learning becomes decontextualized, such that the relevance and utilization of knowledge decreases in value without available learning activities and preparation for future learning (Belenky and Nokes, 2012). A declining intrinsic presence might suggest increasing the challenge, interest and relevance of the goal. Similarly, an increase in intrinsic motivation may equate to reducing the external reward systems and contingencies connected to the performance standards (Lepper et al., 2005). Combining both learning and performance dimensions to the achievement modality increases the need for achievement. Self-conceptions become less nebulous, and incremental theories of ability are validated thought achievement gains. Environmental constructs become conducive to normative motivations aligned with perceiving competencies as mastery standards involve. However, Lepper et al. (2005) suggested that performance goals, while extrinsic, have been linked to decreased cognitive engagement and avoidance of challenge.

Motivation to transfer learning among to readiness, satisfaction, performance and achievement dyads

Porter et al. (2003) describe motivation as the force that energizes, directs and sustains behavior. Motivation consists of energy, direction and persistence (Fard et al., 2010). According to Manzoor (2012), motivation symbolizes a procedure initiated through psychological and physiological needs dispensed toward a specific objective. Kroth (2007) postulated that motivation might increase with work customization. Notably, motivation is the product of an exponential reverberation of expectancy, instrumentality and the attractiveness of the specified goal (Vroom, 1964). Implicit and explicit reinforcement form a modeled behavior if presented with positive incentives or rewards. Harter (1981) suggested that the collaboration between intrinsic interests and extrinsic rewards acts as a tool to motivate learning. Maehr and Nicholls (1980) inferred that an intrapersonal requisite generates a subjective standard for learning used to evaluate competency as a part of goal achievement to measure mastery.

Skinner (1953) theorized that behaviors that result in positive outcomes are recurrent, and behaviors that result in adverse outcomes are not. If the valence of the reward lacks an affective investment, the individual can conceivably become demotivated, although a certain level of effort was calculated and exerted, the performance was achievable, and the reward was certain. Contrariwise, the presence of a practical component can be counterintuitive and operationalize ways to avoid mastery attempts for fear of failure. Mastery-based standards assess competency levels based on the positive possibility to succeed or a staunch avoidance of failure (Elliot and Harackiewicz, 1996). Motivation through intrinsic and extrinsic sources reinforces behaviors that are learned better, given more attention and performed more often (Robbins et al., 2017).

Lunenburg (2011) explained that a multiplicative effect that construes (1) an exertion of deliberate effort would produce a perceived level of performance, (2) a perceived level of performance is instrumentally manipulated in procuring the desired outcome and (3) an allocated value is advertently attached to the outcome or reward. Meaning, if A ≠ B, B ≠ A, or if C = 0, then no motivation exists. If an individual believes that expending a certain level of effort will produce a heightened level of performance, however, if the improbability of being rewarded is substantiated, then the individual becomes demotivated. Alternatively, if an individual assumes the probability of being rewarded for a certain level of performance but appraises the effort needed to perform a task successfully as impossible, the individual will not be motivated and avoid the task.

Conversely, learners can cognitively evaluate situational contexts and determine deficient psychology and emotional deficiencies. The theoretical scaffold is construed by models that emphasize the behavior → attitudes (attitudes follow behaviors) paradigm (Dickson, 1973). Consequently, the negative feedback loop stops and growth potential halts. Heylighen (1992, 2014) asserted that the virtue of openness to experience creates an eagerness to undergo new experiences, learn new ideas and skills and trying new things. Accordingly, existing schemas and ego-cultures are contradicted, resulting in the challenge of schematic acuities. This venture into the unknown motivates self-actualizers to intuitively and rationally understand contradictory perceptions while purposely detracted from denying, repressing or deforming novel observations. Subtly, there exists a predisposed notion enact competitive undertones existent between the mastery- and performance-approach. The need to master certain task levels suggestively affects performance levels, which augments the need to learn more (Harackiewicz et al., 1998). Tendencies to exponentially strengthen self-efficacy increases while maintaining an intrapersonal control that creates an awareness of oneself. The goal becomes actualized when conceptualizing the learning activity as a cognitively represented aim separated by the intentionality for pursuing the goal (Elliot and Thrash, 2001).

Theoretical framework and model

This study aims to examine a reconceptualized framework that disaggregates theoretical relationships to measure the multiplier effect, or motivational sequence, based on hypothesized dyad conjectured by theory or empirical research. This study examines the multidimensional coupling of relational correlates and the associative effects of learning transfer among each dyad. The proposed theoretical framework assumes the disposition of systems theory; meaning that behavior of each relational dyad directly affects the overall behavior of the entire transfer system. Rather than triggering an independent effect on the entire system, each dyad has associative effects that are interdependent and work interconnectedly to move toward equilibrium within the entire system (Skyttner, 1996).

Specifically, the cyclical model (see Figure 1), using elements of the double transfer model (cf. Figure 1, Schwartz and Martin, 2004) implies that acquired knowledge generates a motivation to transfer learning in real-world situations, which initiates competence awareness (readiness), or mastery-approach (Elliott and Murayama, 2008). Knowledge is believed to be transferred out if its use is suitable to solve new problems outside the boundaries of the original learning construct (Belenky and Nokes, 2012). As readiness increases attributable to repetitive usages of knowledge, behavioral retorts are mediated by intrinsic factors (i.e. autonomy and environmental control) that trigger a favorable effect (satisfaction). The readiness-satisfaction dyad denotes the origin of learning characterized by hands-on inventions or instructional activities (Schwartz and Martin, 2004). Equally, knowledge acquired transfer out through a feedforward mechanism that helps mitigate the fear of failure and increase pre-emptive measures to reduce uncertainty (Goldsmith, 2003).

As satisfaction increases, customized arrangements of activities are intentionally compiled to accomplish a specific goal or set of goals (performance) as knowledge transfers through the learning continuum or channel. Within the transfer climate (e.g. work environment), concurrent controls symbolize supervisory and peer support, opportunities to perform and accountability (Burke and Hutchins, 2007). Several researchers addressed leadership theories that denoted the latitudinal empowerment (i.e. influence in decision-making, open communications, confidence) and independence given by subordinate-oriented boss (Hersey and Blanchard, 1982; Tannenbaum and Schmidt, 1975; Harris et al., 2011).

According to Vroom (1964), performance levels based on calculative efforts exerted results in the accomplishment of the goal itself (achievement). When culminated at the end of the continuum, knowledge amassed through replicative uses within the channel is now suitable to be transferred into new learning situations (Belenky and Nokes, 2012). After achievement goals are complete and evaluated, learning interventions can be designed to provide learners with timely feedback, reinforcement and remediation to help improve the mastery-approach (Lee and Kahnweiler, 2000; Salas et al., 1999). Belenky and Nokes (2012) found that learners who were able to experience procedural invention and instructional activities into worked examples prior to the prospective problem increased in motivation to transfer in learning to new learning situations.

The theory assumes a causal effect that signifies an evolution of mastery after achievement is reached. Learning transfer and mastery-approach remain the pivotal variables that drive the exponential change throughout the cyclical recurrence. Specifically, motivation and learning act as proximal filters that foster intrinsic properties that externally regulate the outward transference of learning in a situationally, physically and emotionally governed channel (Baard et al., 2004; Gegenfurtner et al., 2009). The channel acts as a conduit in which mastery becomes a derivative product of replicative learning and is granularly attained over time (Baldwin and Ford, 1988). The range between readiness and achievement where acquired knowledge become applicative and replicative within controlled environments are proximal predictors that generate achievement outputs such as intrinsic motivation and performance attainment (Elliott and Church, 1997).

The model postulates the following theoretical linear and cyclical sequence: (1) knowledge and skills gained by the employee through hands-on inventions or instructional activities are transferred in to new learning situations, (2) transferred out to solve problems external of its origin point by performing task- or situation-specific activities, (3) utilized and transferred through the learning continuum to achieve goals and (4) assessed to determine transfer gains (increase in learning) that will be used to transfer in to new and upcoming situations. This cycle of transference stimulates the employee inwardly (emotionally and cognitively) as the flow of learning (knowledge and skills) (Noe and Schmitt, 1986) transmits among relational dyads while outputs of each dyad (i.e. application of knowledge, performing tasks, completion of goals) are produced outwardly (situationally and empirically).

As achievement success increases, complicated tasks are more likely selected as personal challenges are dominated (Bigge and Hunt, 1980), and constructive appraisals are provided. Conversely, if achievement success declines, more manageable tasks are more likely to be selected to reduce the fear of failure. At this juncture, competency-based on intrapersonal standards of absolute mastery is demoted self-conceptions of ability (Elliott and Murayama, 2008). Intrapersonal incompetence and task-based avoidance become antecedents to performance-avoidance, which fails to scaffold intrinsic motivation as a relevant contributor in part (Elliott and Murayama, 2008). To surmise, if the motivation to transfer learning increases among all dyads, the cycle perpetuates. Alternatively, if transfer learning decreases, the cyclical progression either ceases to initiate, protract or discontinue.

Hypothesis and methodology

Based on the literature surrounding job performance and satisfaction paradigms and expectancy theory, this article tests the following hypothesis:

1. Hypothesis 1: An increase in motivation to transfer learning among one or more relational dyads generates a continual cyclical effect among readiness, satisfaction, performance and achievement.

2. Hypothesis 2: A decrease in motivation to transfer learning decreases among one or more relational dyads generates a cyclical effect that protracts or rests.

3. Alternative Hypothesis 1: Motivation to transfer learning has no effect on any relational dyad and no cyclical effect occurs.

This study aims to test if a direct link exists between Matthews et al. (2018) readiness-satisfaction dyad, Park et al. (2017) satisfaction-performance dyad, and Vroom (1964) performance-achievement dyad. This study is conducted through a critical realist and pragmatic paradigm which justifies a mixed-methods approach that incorporates qualitative and quantitative data within a neural network. This research finds it necessary to capture the richness of business societal interactions through a mixed-methods approach as one methodology does not capture the complexities of the interconnected systems. This study fills a literary gap by utilizing neural networks to create empirical and rational knowledge that incorporates the quantitative side, which is often neglected in motivational research studies.

This research utilizes triangulation in a quantitative and qualitative sequential mixed-methods approach by combining conceptual frameworks of the dyads through a neural network methodological approach. Similarly, Modic et al. (2019) conduct a study that discusses using neural networks to choose an appropriate method and then integrating both qualitative and quantitative data through machine learning. When choosing an approach, this research turned to the related literature to choose an appropriate methodological framework, illustrated in Figure 2, to apply to this research study.

This study layers the satisfaction-performance dyad (Park et al., 2017) on top of the performance-achievement dyad and readiness-satisfaction dyad to understand how motivation accelerates, slows and possibly halts throughout each node of the network. Through this approach, we created an algorithm that allows us to model the dyad cycle with a machine learning neural network to understand the flow of motivation energy through the progression of the variables. The Artificial Neural Network, or ANN, utilizes a binary system to codify the level of motivation energy that exits between each biological cell within the neural network. Then, after the algorithm is codified into a binary numerical system, it will flow through a threshold logic unit to derive the energy to fire through the biological process. If the TLU is positive, then it can fire through the next biological cell and flow through the dyads. Using a threshold logic unit to derive outcomes, this simulation method measures how energy impacts the dyads throughout the biological cell cycle with a multiplier effect.

To program the neural network model for the readiness satisfaction dyad, each variable is assigned the appropriate Likert scale as assigned by the research survey outcomes and weighed by the neural network. The survey tool establishes eight choices for leader–member relations, four choices for maturity level and willingness to do the work, four choices for Hersey and Blanchard (1982) situational leadership theory, seven hygiene factors based on a 1–10 satisfaction on a Likert scale, and the level of actualization based upon Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs (see Figure 3).

Figure 4 shows the leader–member relations portion of the algorithm is determined by four maturity levels, as researched by Hersey and Blanchard (1982) and are assigned their appropriate letter designations.

Hersey and Blanchard's (1982) situational leadership theory is based on a dyad between leadership style and the maturity level of those being led. Within this dyad, leadership styles stem from four basic behaviors, designated with a letter–number combination. The algorithm assigns the appropriate number to the respective leadership style, which is represented in Figure 5 below.

Then, the survey measures the level of satisfaction of the following hygiene factors:

1. Supervisors;

2. Working conditions;

3. Interpersonal relations;

4. Pay and security and

5. Company policies and administration.

Next, the neural network assigned the actualization level on Maslow's hierarchy of needs pyramid. The number assignment designation is as follows: (1) psychological, (2) safety, (3) belongingness, (4) esteem and (5) self-actualizations.

To see how motivation increased, decreased or halted performance energy, the model overlaid readiness satisfaction with the satisfaction performance to understand the flow of motivational energy. Vroom's (1964) model of performance achievement makes the indications of the TLU to measure energy outcomes. In the research of Vroom, three variables indicated motivation, which included the linkage of A performance and effort, B the linkage of performance and rewards, and C attractiveness or valence. In other words, if A ≠ B, B ≠ A, or if C = 0, then no motivation exists.

Then, the ANN overlays the research of Park et al. (2017), which determines why high performers feel dissatisfied when role overload (resource outflow) exists and how external resources impact performance and role satisfaction (resource inflow). The research of Park et al. discovered that role overload decreased high performers' job satisfaction. The leader–member exchange social comparison (LMXSC) increased high performers' job satisfaction because of the exclusive resources attained. According to this study, job satisfaction was lowest when resource outflow from role overload was not traded off by the resource inflow of LMXSC (Park et al., 2017). Figure 6 represents the algorithmic utilization of the machine learning employed to communicate among dyadic nodes.

Finally, the weight for each variable, as determined by the ANN, is passed through a sigmoid function to codify it into a binary construct. This summation is then normalized through a sigmoid function:

11+e−x

Sample

The sample selection for this study is guided by the sampling methods utilized by researchers perusing to understand readiness-satisfaction, satisfaction-performance, performance-achievement motivation and organizational learning (Fard et al., 2010; Gu and Chi, 2009; Matthews et al., 2018; Poloski-Vokic et al., 2008; Vroom, 1964). This study utilizes a probability and deliberate sampling approach to obtain information about employee and employer relational dyads in a simulation within the workforce population of east Texas. Survey data of 320 supervisor–employee dyads across seven major industries in the East Texas region are collected in this study. The sample includes 160 supervisors and 160 lower-ranking employees. The demographics of supervisory level respondents include a mean age of 47 years, with 15 years of industry-related experience, and reports an average tenure of four years in their current roles. The nonsupervisory component of the data sample includes respondents with a mean age of 32 years, seven years of experience in their fields, and three years of tenure in their current roles. The sample includes 55% men and 45% of women participants. Figure 7 represents additional details about the sample utilized in this research study.

Data results

This study accepts the hypotheses that motivation to transfer learning creates a multiplier effect among the readiness-satisfaction dyad when learning is present, which triangulates Matthews et al. (2018), the satisfaction-performance dyad from Park et al. (2017) and the performance-achievement dyad of Vroom (1964). The data substantiate the multiplicative effect of job readiness, satisfaction, performance and achievement, both positively and negatively, depending on the trajectory of the motivational factor, even when learning is present. Thus, the presence of motivation causes a cyclical effect that perpetuates among relational dyads. The data reveal that when motivation wanes or ceases among one or more dyads, the cyclical effect begins to retract and, eventually, stop. The implication of ignoring the applied effect that motivation has on job readiness, satisfaction, achievement and performance leave researchers and managers with ineffective and nonapplicable models to judge the motivational phenomenon.

Based on the neural network model computations, the results are statistically significant, with a p-value of 0.00. Further the R2 indicates that the readiness-satisfaction dyad, the satisfaction-performance-dyad and the performance-achievement dyad have an R2 of 88%, signifying a direct correlation. The SD when commutating the survey results from the dyadic comprises readiness, satisfaction, performance and achievement without motivation resulted in 3.89, whereas the standard 2.53, which makes motivation a variable that sways consistency toward positive performance outcomes. The standard error of the mean dropped from 0.22 to 0.14 when motivation was present. The following chart presents the statistical outcomes of satisfaction, readiness, performance and achievement in this research study.

The null hypothesis is rejected and both alternative hypotheses are accepted as the t-statistic of 0.20 is less than the critical two tail distribution of 0.84. Moreover, the line graph (see Figure 8) presents the exactitude at which correlation is generated.

The algorithm yielded μ = 6.0 in the sample that did not incorporate motivational vectors and μ = 2.95 with an underlying motivational driver (see Table 1).

Interestingly, the difference between both valuations was 3.05, which indicates that motivation is a substantial multiplier effect across performance, achievement and readiness. Furthermore, the neural network model was successful in back-propagating motivation and how it impacts the dyads through a cyclical feedback loop.

Discussion and conclusion

A neural network approach is used in this study to triangulate if a multiplicative exacerbation exists when motivation transpires between nodes to understand the effect of transfer learning among dyads. This study shows that an elevated presence of motivation to transfer learning serves as a prerequisite to maintain an active cyclical and recursive effect between all hypothesized dyads. Inversely, when motivation to transfer learning decreases among dyads, the cyclical effect theoretically retracts and, eventually, stops. Marginal opportunities to actively use acquired skills on the job directly impedes transfer learning while opportunities to utilize trained skills constitute a prerequisite to successful knowledge transfer (Clarke, 2002; Lim and Johnson, 2002).

The continual presence of motivation to transfer learning and the correlative effect on each dyad show a progressive transfer of knowledge persists when intrinsic and extrinsic cues remain resonate in mastery-approach and achievement goals. This study further establishes a dyadic linkage between the job readiness and satisfaction model Matthews et al. (2018), the satisfaction and performance (Gu and Chi, 2009; Judge et al., 2001) and the expectancy model (Vroom, 1964). The continual presence of motivation and the correlative effect on paradigmatic variables show progressive matriculation through relational dyads that persist if intrinsic and extrinsic factors remain to resonate in goal attainment.

According to the neural network model, the findings indicate that as motivation to transfer learning increases among one or more relational dyads, a multiplier effect stimulates a continuous loop among readiness, satisfaction and performance. The implications of ignoring the applied effect that motivation has on readiness, satisfaction, achievement and performance leaves managers with ineffective and nonapplicable models to judge the motivational phenomenon. Gegenfurtner et al., (2009) emphasized the simultaneous presence of self-determination theory (Baard et al., 2004) and expectancy theory (Vroom, 1964), which decisively administers cognitive-choice and need-motive-choice approaches that theoretically predicts and empirically explain human performance. The implicit and explicit cruxes within the unidirectional channel reflect internally motivated behavior used to assess an intrapersonal assessment of competence and externally prompted reasons to transfer knowledge within a controlled environment applicably.

Based on the theoretical framework used in this study, motivation to transfer learning governs concentrated efforts and performance energy (motivation) indicative of foreshadowing outcome actualizations. Vroom (1964) and Herzberg et al. (1959) asserted that the nexus between expectancy and goal attainment congregates valuative calculations of assumptive performance outputs within environments with combined intrinsic (motivators) and extrinsic (hygiene) factors which generate an affective response creating a transfer climate suitable for mastery- and performance-approach. Increasingly focused on hygiene factors, Colquitt et al. (2000) found a strong correlation between environmental climate (channel) and transfer activities. Additionally, environmental climates need vetting before knowledge transference becomes the expectant catalyst to increase skill application (Burke and Baldwin, 1999; Richman-Hirsch, 2001). Lim and Johnson (2002) found that higher transfer activities were more prevalent when achievement goals matched departmental goals.

The motivational model created by the neural network within this study was substantiated with statistical accuracy and validated the amalgam of effects of motivation as learners reach a higher level of readiness, satisfaction, performance and achievement through homogeneity of lower-level phenomena. Based on this derivative, managers must focus on incorporating and linking local decisions derived from the transfer of knowledge (transfer in) to daily work operations (transfer out) that significantly align individual performance outcomes to systemic organizational goals can further encourage the transfer of learning (Lim and Johnson, 2002). Furthermore, job design should be centered on one's skills, abilities and preferences (Robbins et al., 2017). This customization can purportedly match one's self-efficacy, whether task- or situation-specific (Bandura, 1997). Barron and Harackiewicz (2001) found that circumstantial situations mediate adaptive patterns of learning based on extrinsic motives associated with performance goals. Managers should (1) develop task- and situation-specific training activities there are aligned with intrinsic cues and organizational goals, (2) provide learning transfer mechanisms of positive feedback loops that develop capacities, thus meeting intrapersonal standards of improving remaining potentialities and (3) create structured climates suitable for learning convey transfer gains into new situations.

Figures

Figure 1

Cyclical effect connecting readiness, satisfaction, performance and achievement. Note that motivation to transfer learning is an internal variable present of each dyad

Figure 2

Quan→QUAL triangulation design

Figure 3

Readiness-satisfaction dyad algorithm

Figure 4

Leader–member exchange dyad algorithm

Figure 5

Leadership style coding

Figure 6

Machine learning process algorithm for neural network

Figure 7

Research sample for machine learning process

Figure 8

The causality between motivation and readiness, satisfaction, performance and achievement dyadic

Table 1

Statistical outcomes of readiness, satisfaction, performance and achievement

Readiness, satisfaction, performance and achievement dyads with motivation		Readiness, satisfaction, performance and achievement dyads with motivation		Difference
Mean	6.003125	Mean	2.94921875	3.05390625
Standard error	0.217468467	Standard error	0.141879952	0.07558852
Median	5.5	Median	2.75	2.75
Mode	0	Mode	0	0
SD	3.890194197	SD	2.538025733	1.35216846
Sample Variance	15.13361089	Sample Variance	6.441574633	8.69203627
Kurtosis	0.273043432	Kurtosis	0.034275479	0.23876795
Skewness	0.640601599	Skewness	0.767640106	−0.12703851
Range	20.75	Range	11	9.75
Minimum	−0.75	Minimum	0	−0.75
Maximum	20	Maximum	11	9
Sum	1921	Sum	943.75	977.25
Count	320	Count	320	0
Confidence level (95.0%)	0.427853635	Confidence level (95.0%)	0.279138645	0.14871499