Investigating the relationship between the learning organisation, work engagement and job satisfaction in a selected municipality

Abstract

The effectiveness of learning organisations in fostering positive employee outcomes has become an increasingly important focus within public sector entities. Learning organisation practices that encourage continuous learning, knowledge sharing, and adaptive change are theorised to enhance employee engagement and job satisfaction. Despite their recognised importance, limited empirical research has examined the relationship between learning organisation practices, work engagement, and job satisfaction in municipal contexts. The primary objective of this study was to investigate relationships among learning organisation, work engagement, and job satisfaction, within a selected municipality. Furthermore, the study aimed to determine whether work engagement mediates the relationship between learning organisation and job satisfaction, providing insights into the mechanisms through which organisational learning impacts employee engagement and behaviour. A quantitative research methodology employing a cross-sectional survey design, supported by the positivist philosophy, was applied. Data were collected from 260 respondents using stratified random sampling method from the municipal employee population. Standardised questionnaires assessed learning organisation practices, work engagement, and job satisfaction. Statistical analyses were conducted using SPSS, including exploratory factor analysis to validate the factor structures, reliability analyses to confirm internal consistency, and correlation, regression, and mediation analyses to investigate the relationships among variables, with a significance level of p <0.05. The results revealed that learning organisation practices are moderately implemented within the municipality. Significant positive relationships were found between learning organisation practices, work engagement, and job satisfaction. Furthermore, work engagement partially mediated the relationship between learning organisation practices and job satisfaction, highlighting the importance of engaging employees to translate organisational learning into higher job satisfaction. This study contributes to the literature by providing empirical evidence of the role of learning organisation practices in enhancing employee engagement and satisfaction in municipal contexts. The findings underscore the importance of developing learning-oriented organisational cultures and targeted employee engagement initiatives to improve job satisfaction and overall municipal performance.