Learning conditions, members’ motivation and satisfaction: a multilevel analysis

The purpose of this paper was to contribute to the clarification of the conditions under which teams can be successful, especially those related to team learning. To attain this goal, in the present study, the mediating role played by team members’ motivation on the relationship between team learning conditions (shared learning beliefs and team learning support) and members’ satisfaction with the team was analysed.

An empirical study with a multilevel design was carried out. Data concerning learning conditions, motivation and satisfaction were obtained from a survey among 398 employees working in 71 teams that perform complex tasks from 24 companies. A multilevel analysis was conducted.

Overall, the results showed that both team learning conditions – shared learning beliefs and team learning support – had a significant positive effect on members’ satisfaction, which was mediated by members’ motivation.

The proliferation of groups in the organizational setting has set new challenges for organizational research. In fact, more than ever it is necessary to study the conditions under which teams can be successful. Our findings put forward the relevance of creating conditions in the team to learn to increase team effectiveness, namely, in terms of team members’ satisfaction.