The integration of applied psychology with other disciplines enables the addressing of complex problems, such as education and health. This is the case of training leaders for and in the context of growing digitalization, virtual tools, and hybrid workplaces. A multidisciplinary approach allows for the integration of knowledge about the science of training with effective leadership for performance and well-being, as well as the development of digital tools. With this aim, our research team has developed a self-guided web and app-based training program for leaders in telework. We aim to describe multidisciplinary collaboration in the development of the e-learning platform and software, and to analyze the impact of the training on the learning experience.
We departed from problem-focused research, combining organizational and occupational health psychology, computer engineering, and multimedia training through a process of need analysis, requirements identification, design, implementation, and evaluation. A total of 126 leaders completed the program. Participants evaluated their satisfaction with the web- and app-based training, as well as their perceptions of their ability to transfer the learning. Data was collected through the app and survey.
The results show high levels of satisfaction among participants with the learning process and the use of various methods and tools (X=5.16 = 5.16, range 1-6), especially with the structure of the training, the materials, and the fit with the media. Similar levels of satisfaction were found for leaders with different levels of remote work (hybrid or completely remote) or tenure. The higher levels of satisfaction were experienced in the modules related to reducing affinity distance. The perceived ability to transfer the learning was related to levels of satisfaction. Our research suggests that multidisciplinary collaboration has a significant impact on the success of online leadership training. Suggestions for improving the interaction between the various tools employed are considered.