Impact of Knowledge Adoption and Cognitive Learning in the Knowledge Transfer Process

Abstract

This study aims to investigate the influence of knowledge adoption (intention to adopt knowledge) and cognitive learning in the knowledge transfer process. The moderating impact of cognitive learning strategy is also explored. Building on cognitive learning theories, a model was developed to examine the knowledge recipient's intention to adopt knowledge and his/her cognitive learning. As this study follows quantitative approach, the model was tested empirically using a survey of 615 white-collar workers in Thailand. The results show that higher knowledge recipient's intention to adopt knowledge can enhance his/her cognitive learning. The results also show that utilizing cognitive learning strategy may only be suitable for some groups of knowledge recipients. Based on the study's findings, management teams can understand the importance of employees' intention to adopt knowledge in their learning of the transferred knowledge. Moreover, management teams can understand how to utilize the cognitive learning strategy for employees with different intentions to adopt knowledge.