THE EFFECT OF FLEXIBLE WORKING ARRANGEMENTS ON JOB SATISFACTION OF WORKING FEMALE

Abstract

This study explores the concept and application of the learning organization (LO) in higher vocational colleges in China within the context of ongoing educational reforms and digital transformation. Drawing upon Senge’s five disciplines and the Dimensions of the Learning Organization Questionnaire (DLOQ) developed by Watkins and Marsick, the paper reviews theoretical perspectives, policy drivers, and empirical evidence to assess how LO practices contribute to institutional development. The 2019 Implementation Plan on National Vocational Education Reform and the “Double High Plan” have positioned higher vocational colleges at the forefront of quality assurance, performance management, and industry collaboration. Literature indicates that dimensions such as team learning, embedded systems, and strategic leadership play a pivotal role in fostering innovation, program renewal, and school–enterprise integration. However, critical gaps exist: contradictions in the cultural adaptation of the DLOQ (e.g., debates between Li & Lu’s (2007) “governance-oriented” dimension and Song et al.’s (2009) retention of seven core dimensions); insufficient analysis of how policies like the “Double High Plan” translate into on-the-ground LO practices; and limited empirical evidence of causal links between LO mechanisms and hard outcomes (e.g., employer satisfaction). This review synthesizes existing studies into a China-specific LO schema that emphasizes leadership direction (aligned with Double High KPIs), inquiry cycles (enabled by digital tools), digital infrastructures (as organizational memory), and external partnerships (tied to labor-market needs). Findings underscore the importance of aligning LO practices with national policy priorities and suggest practical implications for administrators to institutionalize continuous learning. The study contributes to theory by addressing DLOQ cultural adaptation debates and to practice by providing actionable steps for bridging policy and LO implementation.