Does learning organization create workplace happiness of educators? A post-pandemic perspective

BACKGROUND: Higher education industry has seen a dramatic shift in the new normal. Given that, the present study proposes learning organization as a predictor of happiness of teachers and the academic administrators because happiness is vital to enhancing performance during unprecedented times. OBJECTIVE: Drawing on the resource based view (RBV) and ability, motivation and opportunity (AMO) framework, this research aims to investigate workplace happiness of university-level educators in the post-pandemic era. It proposes learning organization as a determinant of happiness at work through indirect path of perceived organizational support. Furthermore, it also proposes moderation of achievement motivation between learning organization and workplace happiness. METHODS: Using simple random sampling, data were collected through survey questionnaire from 172 staff and faculty members of universities/HEIs in Sindh, Pakistan. The study employed structural equation modeling through SmartPLS for data analysis. RESULTS: The study findings suggest that learning organization indirectly predicts happiness at work through perceived organizational support. However, moderation of employee achievement motivation could not be supported. CONCLUSION: Applying learning organization model and utilizing AMO and RBV theories, the study offers implications from theoretical and managerial perspectives. It proposes a holistic framework for achieving workplace happiness amidst post-COVID era. The study recommends that during times of uncertainty, the universities/HEIs may implement the model of learning organization as a strategic tool to foster happiness at work. It could result in a satisfied, committed and engaged workforce. Limitations and future research areas are discussed.