Purpose The purpose of this systematic review is to examine the antecedents of workplace learning, focusing on the individual and contextual factors that facilitate or inhibit engagement in learning activities integrated into daily work. The review aims to provide insights into how workplace learning occurs and how it can be supported in contemporary work environments. Design/methodology/approach This study uses a systematic review methodology, ensuring a comprehensive and transparent synthesis of research. The review focuses on identifying individual and contextual antecedents influencing workplace learning, based on studies published between 2012 and 2022. A total of 73 studies were included after a rigorous selection process, analysing factors that impact workplace learning in evolving work environments. Findings The review identifies key individual factors, such as motivation and self-efficacy, alongside contextual influences like learning climate and job demands, that significantly impact workplace learning. Emerging trends include the increasing role of digital tools and hybrid work models, which highlight the evolving nature of workplace learning in contemporary organisations. Originality/value This review reflects the evolving nature of work and learning, emphasising the need for a more immediate and embedded understanding of how learning occurs in today’s workplaces. It aligns with the growing emphasis on learning “in the flow of work” and underscores the importance of organisations fostering adaptability and innovation through integrated learning practices. By focusing specifically on workplace learning, this review offers valuable insights for organisations aiming to support continuous learning in dynamic environments.
Wijga et al. (2025) studied this question.