Non-mandatory training: A concept analysis in the work, environmental context

Non-mandatory training is seen as an important facilitator in developing individual employees' competencies and the organization's performance. However, previous studies of non-mandatory training in the context of the work environment show a lack of conceptual clarity. A universal definition in work environment settings is missing from published literature. Therefore, this chapter analyzes the concept called non-mandatory training in the work environment setting. To attain this objective, the researcher applied the concept analysis proposed by Walker and Avant. Based on the analysis, a definition of non-mandatory training was established. That definition was used in this study to reconcile the discrepancies between the understanding of the concept by academics and practitioners, and by allied HR professionals, who tended to view it from different perspectives. Proper understanding of basic assumptions can facilitate communication between different educational and work environment settings and enhance the concept clarity and validity for future research.