Training for gig workers: a systematic review and research agenda

Abstract

Purpose This study aims to synthesize existing findings in the gig worker training literature and identify the training rationales adopted by these studies, using a synthesized framework of organizational training rationales. This study seeks to delineate the rationales behind gig worker training and highlight unaddressed training needs within digital platforms, ultimately proposing a research agenda for future studies in this area. Design/methodology/approach A systematic review methodology is adopted to synthesize and analyze empirical, peer-reviewed studies on gig worker training. Findings The systematic review reveals that competency and economic rationales are predominantly adopted in gig worker training studies, with the relationship rationale, common in traditional training, notably absent. This study also outlines seven future research directions to highlight identified challenges and unaddressed training needs. Originality/value To the best of the author’s knowledge, this study is the first work that systematically reviews existing findings on gig worker training.