Impact of Information and Communication Technology on Self-directed Learning among Employees at Red Crescent Society of Tehran

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: The achievement of organizational goals depends on the ability of employees to perform the assigned tasks and adapt to the changing environment. The implementation of training and improvement of human resources allow people to effectively continue their activities and increase their efficiency in accordance with organizational and environmental changes. The present study aimed to assess the impact of information and communication technology on self-directed learning among Employees at the Red Crescent Society of Tehran. METHODS: This research was applied-descriptive and survey-type. The statistical population of the current research included all 1800 employees at the Red Crescent Society of Tehran. Based on Cochran's formula, 317 subjects were selected by simple random sampling and answered the questionnaires. To check the variables of the research, a 73-item questionnaire was used, which assesses the two variables of information and communication technology and self-directed learning. The validity of the questionnaire was confirmed by experts' opinions, and its reliability was assessed by Cronbach's alpha method. Research hypotheses were tested by structural equation modeling using LISREL software. Confirmatory factor analysis was used to measure the indicators of the questionnaire, and the model of path coefficients and significant coefficients was applied to examine the hypotheses. FINDINGS: The results of the analyses demonstrated that information and communication technology and each dimension of using computers, media (radio and television), the Internet, educational software, and mobile phones had a significant positive effect on self-control, willingness to learn, and self-management among the employees at Red Crescent Society of Tehran. CONCLUSION: In every organization, the management must make sure that the employees recognize the importance of learning since it is a key factor in the success of the organization. It is necessary for the management of every organization to remove mental models and old beliefs and, considering the role of information technology in learning and creating transformations in learning methods, provide the grounds for its application among employees.