Validity and reliability assessment of the transformative learning outcomes and processes (TROPOS) survey in public sector work-related learning

Keywords: transformative learning, workplace learning, human resources development, public sector, validity and reliability

Abstract


As corporate contexts and business environments become increasingly complex, Transformative Learning (TL) in workplace research is gaining prominence. This type of learning can shift perspectives, leading to psychological, convictional, and behavioural changes, as described by Clark’s (1991) adaptation of Mezirow’s theory of transformation (1978). The Transformative Outcomes and Processes Survey (TROPOS), developed by Robert Cox (2017), is a reliable tool for measuring TL, featuring four subscales: Social Support, Attitude toward Uncertainty, Criticality, and Transformative Outcomes. This study assesses the validity and reliability of the 30-item TROPOS instrument in workplace learning using a quantitative, questionnaire-based approach. Convenience sampling was employed, targeting accessible respondents from 238 employees of the Public Employment Services in Greece. Results from confirmatory factor analysis and Cronbach’s alpha confirm the instrument’s applicability to workplace learning. The study validates TROPOS as a useful tool for evaluating TL outside educational settings and extends the understanding of TL in work-related contexts. The implications and constraints of TL research are discussed, contributing to the literature and practice in this field.

Author Biographies

Mary Viterouli, University of Thessaly

Ms. Mary Viterouli is the Deputy Director at the DYPA Higher Vocational Training School in Chalkida, Greece, and is currently pursuing a Ph.D. at the University of Thessaly. She has participated in and presented at various renowned international conferences and has published peer-reviewed books, chapters, and articles. Her scientific interests include Strategic Management, Human Resources Management, Adult Education, Sociology, and English Literature.

Dimitrios Belias, University of Thessaly

Dr. Dimitrios Belias is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Business Administration at the University of Thessaly, Greece. He has published more than 150 papers in International and Greek refereed journals and has more than 80 conference presentations. His research expertise is in the area of human resource management, organizational behaviour and tourism management.

Athanasios Koustelios, University of Thessaly

Dr. Athanasios Koustelios is a Professor in the Department of Business Administration at the University of Thessaly, Greece. He has published more than 120 papers in International and Greek refereed journals and has more than 180 conference presentations. His research expertise is in the area of human resource management and organizational behaviour.

Nikolaos Tsigilis , Aristotle University of Thessaloniki

Dr. Nikolaos Tsigilis is an Associate Professor in the Department of Journalism and Mass Media Communication, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece.  He has published more than 120 papers in International and Greek refereed journals and has a variety of conference presentations.  His research expertise is in the area of methodology and psychometrics of  Social Sciences.

 

full affiliation: 

Professor, Department of Journalism and Mass Media Communication, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Egnatia 46, Thessaloniki, 54625, Greece & College of Education, United Arab Emirates University.;

Orchid: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2388-959X

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Published
2025/11/17
Issue
Vol. 20 No. 2 (2025): Serbian Journal of Management
Section
Original Scientific Paper

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