Transfer of training: Adding insight through social network analysis

This article reviews studies which apply a social network perspective to examine transfer of training. The theory behind social networks focuses on the interpersonal mechanisms and social structures that exist among interacting units such as people within an organization. A premise of this perspective is that individual’s behaviors and outcomes are significantly affected by how that individual is tied into the larger web of social connections. With regard to transfer of training, the investigation of social networks as a perspective can build in-depth understanding of how social support aids in transfer of training.Three groups of studies using a social network perspective are identified. A first group questions the role of the social network within the organisation for transfer of training. A second group of studies includes the network outside the organisation, hereby stretching the traditional idea of social support. A third group of studies sees the social network as an important outcome of itself. Through these studies, the potential value of the social network perspective for transfer of training research is identified and implications can be indicated.

► This study reviews research employing a social network perspective on transfer of training.
► This perspective unravels the umbrella construct ‘social support’.
► Social networks can be considered as a primary outcome of training.
► More research is needed to identify the different aspects of networks contributing to transfer.