Development and validation of a scale measuring approaches to work‐related informal learning

Social approaches to work‐related informal learning, such as proactive feedback‐seeking, help‐seeking and information‐seeking, are important determinants of development in the workplace. Unfortunately, previous research has failed to clearly conceptualize these forms of learning and does not provide a validated and generally applicable measurement instrument. We set out to develop and validate such a scale measuring social approaches to work‐related informal learning. We collected data in four organizations in Austria and the Netherlands, with a total sample size of 895 employees. These data were used to conduct exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses, which showed four distinct factors: feedback‐seeking from the supervisor, feedback‐seeking from colleagues, help‐seeking and information‐seeking. In conclusion, the scale we developed is valid in a range of contexts and thus is an appropriate tool for research as well as human resource development practice.