Developing Sense of Belonging in Learners or Employees

That’s the purpose of some of the orientations that universities or HR run to make the newbies feel welcome, comfortable, and accepted. But these feelings might not last and not all these orientation programs lead to a sense of belonging.

Besides, research has shown that one’s sense of belonging can influence their self-efficacy, performance, commitment, and well-being. Simply because the nature of belonging has been found to be a fundamental human need from the time we are born [for folks interested in increasing learner motivation, read research by Dweck, Baumeister & Leary, or Ryan & Deci].

Companies that don’t foster a sense of belonging will risk having less productive and innovative staff, as well as high turnover. If employees feel connected to those they work with and the organization, and feel respected by their workmates and leaders, they’ll become more productive and innovative. I would argue that sense of belonging is one of the many factors affecting the transfer of learning too [if training was relevant of course]. That sense of security to use what was learned despite errors and being our imperfect selves can affect the transfer of learning. There are many nuances in sense of belonging and how it could impact a learner’s behavior, decisions, or attitude though. I would also argue even though sense of belonging is mostly relevant to work environment (calling for after-training follow-ups & support), we can design learning experiences that foster sense of belonging.

So, here’s a list to foster a sense of belonging:
Providing a safe environment for expressing different opinions
Making employees feel valued
Making them feel accepted for being their perfect or imperfect selves
Simple actions of showing that you care for them
Giving constructive regular feedback on their performance
Encouraging collaboration and peer support
Inviting employee feedback
Building a community of practice


References

Dweck https://psycnet.apa.org/doiLanding?doi=10.1037%2Frev0000082.
Deci & Ryan https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1207/S15327965PLI1104_01
Baumeister & Leary https://psycnet.apa.org/doiLanding?doi=10.1037%2F0033-2909.117.3.497