Career-relevant learning and development, worker age, and beliefs about self-efficacy for development

Abstract

While employee continuous learning is increasing in importance and labor markets are tightening, the average age of workers is also increasing. But older workers may not participate in learning and development activities as much as younger workers. This paper explores an important and under-recognized factor that may contribute to this age effect: a decline in self-confidence (or self-efficacy) for career-relevant learning and skill development with age. The review explores various factors in an organizational setting which might lead to reduced self-confidence for learning, and subsequently, lower participation in learning/development activities. Suggestions for managing older workers and for research on this topic are offered.