TRAINING DECISION AND FOREIGN CONSTRUCTION WORKERS

Abstract

This study examines the factors influencing workers' training decision. A case study approach was used with two samples. One sample consists of two workers who were training in Construction Industry Training Institute (CITI). The other sample consists of two workers who have rejected training. The results revealed that training awareness was created largely through interpersonal interactions. Monetary factors were found to have significant influence on workers decision to undergo training. Workers who do not train had no economic means to train. Information deficiency existed in these workers' evaluation of training opportunity. Organisation culture was found to be important in promoting training and is a cause of information deficiency. The implications are that firms should shoulder the cost of training. Policy formulation should be targeted at two aspects. Firstly, firms should be encouraged to send their workers to training. It is envisaged that the new levy scheme for skilled workers would promote firms to invest more in training. Legislation could also be enacted to ensure minimum training expenditure. Secondly, policy should be targeted at the workers to create training awareness and to enhance information efficiency. An installment payment scheme for training cost may be provided to the workers.