Training the office polyglot: An explorative study on language training in MNCs

Abstract

Objectives This study aims to shed light on the phenomenon of language training in Multinational Corporations in order to determine (1) typical outcomes of language training, and (2) factors conducive towards said outcomes. It also attempts to find frame the relationship between factors and outcomes to better understand the dynamics of language training.

Summary For this study, five employees in Multinational Corporations who had received language training, and one employee who had undertaken personal study efforts were interviewed to obtain perceptions on factors and outcomes of language training. Findings were coded and themes formed. Finally, a conceptual framework for the dynamics of language training was deduced and the practical implications of the findings discussed.

Conclusions The outcomes of functional work communication, social integration and comfort with using target language were identified as typical outcomes of language training. Meanwhile, the factors of motivation, self-efficacy and optimism, personal tutorage, immersive environment, learning atmosphere, support and accessibility were identified as important input factors that were conducive towards said outcomes. Motivation was further found to be a mediating factor between factors and outcomes.