A survey of factors influencing the engagement of information technology professionals in informal learning activities

A survey collected data on the factors influencing the engagement of 143 information technology (IT) professionals in informal learning activities. Analysis of the data found that this group of professionals relies mostly on searching the Internet to learn informally in the workplace. When they are unable to address their learning need via this activity, IT professionals turn to more interactive activities, such as talking and sharing resources with others. Six environmental factors were found to inhibit IT professionals from engaging in informal learning activities: lack of time, lack of proximity to colleagues' work areas, unsupportive organizational culture, inaccessibility of others, lack of equipment and technology, and lack of meeting/work space. In addition, nine personal characteristics were found to enhance the motivation of this group of professionals to engage in informal learning: (a) initiative; (b) self-efficacy; (c) love of learning; (d) interest in the profession; (e) integrity; (f) outgoing personality; (g) teamwork ethic; (h) curiosity; and (i) open-mindedness. These findings have implications for theory, research, and the facilitation of informal workplace learning (IWL) among IT professionals.