The dimensions of the learning organization questionnaire (DLOQ): A validation study in the Lebanese context

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to address the reliability and validity of the shortened versions of the Arabic dimensions of the learning organization questionnaire (DLOQ) to provide evidence on the learning organization (LO) concept in Lebanon and to draw attention to the applicability of the LO concept to facilitate the development and operationalization of the LO in the Lebanese context.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 298 cases from five Lebanese firms were analyzed. Rigorous translation procedures have been applied to ensure the relevance of this instrument in the Arabic context. Confirmatory factor analysis, item-internal consistency estimates and item intercorrelation analysis showed that the 21- and the seven-item versions of the Arabic DLOQ have produced reliable measurement scores with a construct validity adequate to measure the LO culture in the Lebanese context.

Findings

The results of the current study confirmed that the shortened 21- and seven-item versions of the Arabic DLOQ are reliable, validated and applicable in the Lebanese context. This study also added to the stability of this foundation and pointed out weak areas that can be addressed by refining and developing the research, theory and practice of the LO.

Research limitations/implications

The results of this study based on the shortened versions contributed to operationalizing a conceptually developed LO theory, which is an appropriate example of theory building in an applied discipline. The results also suggest that the LO comprised interdependent building blocks that need to be integrated at the individual, team and organizational levels to promote change and development in a system.

Practical implications

This study provides managers and HR practitioners, especially in the Lebanese context, with a sound model of the LO theory to be applied in their organizations.

Originality/value

This study provides scholars with an understanding of the potential value of the LO in the Lebanese context. The results present evidence of the cultural impact on the perceptions of the LO in the Lebanese context, confirm the applicability of the shortened Arabic DLOQ and provide HR practitioners in Lebanon with a tool to diagnose LO characteristics accurately and consistently and to determine if there is a link between the LO and organizational performance.

Citation

Chai, D.S. and Dirani, K. (2018), "The dimensions of the learning organization questionnaire (DLOQ): A validation study in the Lebanese context", The Learning Organization, Vol. 25 No. 5, pp. 320-330. https://doi.org/10.1108/TLO-03-2016-0017