Digital learning maturity and training transfer effectiveness in European organisations: green skills development, AI learning readiness and learning orientated leadership

Purpose This study aims to examine the association between employees perceived digital learning maturity (DLM) and training transfer effectiveness (TTE) following sustainability training. It considers green skills development and knowledge sharing capability as potential mediators, with learning-orientated leadership and artificial intelligence (AI) learning readiness as conditions that may shape these associations. Design/methodology/approach The study uses a survey administered in three waves to 1,284 employees from 71 organisations in Germany, the Netherlands, Poland, Spain and Sweden. Respondents had completed digital or blended sustainability training. The analyses include confirmatory factor analysis, structural equation modelling, mediation and moderation models, descriptive country estimates and sensitivity checks. Findings Perceived DLM is positively associated with TTE. Reported indirect estimates are positive through green skills development and knowledge sharing capability. Learning orientated leadership interacts positively with DLM in the green skills model, while AI learning readiness interacts positively in the knowledge sharing model. Practical implications Training professionals can use the findings to identify possible weaknesses in opportunities for green skills practice, knowledge exchange, leadership support and responsible AI use. The suggested programme changes require evaluation before their effectiveness can be established. Originality/value The study specifies two potentially distinct routes connecting experienced digital learning provision with subsequent workplace application: development of practical sustainability capability and exchange of learning with colleagues. It distinguishes support for practice from readiness to evaluate and communicate AI-assisted knowledge, while restricting its empirical claims to employee perceptions.