Training Transfer during COVID-19 in Sri Lanka: The Critical Role of Supervisor Support

Abstract Drawing on secondary survey data collected to evaluate post-training outcomes during the COVID-19 pandemic, this study investigates factors influencing the transfer of training during a global health crisis. Using a sample of 152 supervisory- and above-level staff from a leading export apparel manufacturer in Sri Lanka, we conducted a series of statistical tests, including two-way ANOVA and generalized linear modelling, and examined the interaction effects among supervisor support, gender, and workplace context on perceived training transfer during the initial stages of the COVID-19 pandemic. We find that, during the COVID-19 pandemic, supervisor support was significantly associated with perceived training transfer. Although the effect of gender was not significant, the interaction between department and supervisor support was notable, suggesting that workplace context plays an important role in training transfer. The results underscore the importance of supervisor support and the work environment in facilitating training transfer during crises and extreme events.