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The effect of motivational climate perception on learning from mistakes at workplace: the achievement goal theory perspective
Abstract
Mistakes are unpleasant experiences. Rather than avoiding mistakes, which are frequently encountered in the workplace, it's important to learn from them. Because mistakes are the catalyst for success. At this point, it's essential for individuals to learn from mistakes. Learning from mistakes in the workplace can have many antecedents. Individuals’ perceptions of the work environment predict important individual outcomes in organizational behavior. Furthermore, learning from mistakes requires a set of motivational strengths to correct mistakes and reflect on underlying mistakes after experiencing them. This study, shaped by the question "Does motivational climate affect individuals’ learning from mistakes?", was designed to determine the impact of individuals’ perceptions of motivational climate on their attitudes toward learning from mistakes in the workplace. The limited literature on learning from mistakes in the workplace makes this study valuable. Furthermore, no empirical research has been found examining the relationship between motivational climate and learning from mistakes in the workplace. In this context, the study aims to address the methodological gap in the literature. The research hypotheses were developed based on Achievement Goal Theory and analyzed using data obtained from a 29-item survey form from 385 public institution employees selected through convenience sampling. The methodology included frequency, validity, reliability, and structural equation model analyses, as well as descriptive statistics. SPSS 29 and AMOS 24 were utilized in this process. The findings primarily revealed positive effects of mastery climate on cause analysis. Furthermore, the positive effect of mastery climate on strategy development was observed. These results supported the proposed hypotheses. Furthermore, the findings pointed to the positive effects of performance climate on cause analysis. Similarly, performance climate was observed to have a positive effect on strategy development. These results did not support the proposed hypotheses. The results demonstrated the impact of motivational climate on learning from mistakes. Addressing learning from mistakes at the public institution level in preventing public harm also adds value to the study. This study, which discusses the findings within the context of previous literature and Achievement Goal Theory, provides a basis for discussion for further research. The results offer a perspective on the learning from mistakes of public institution employees. In addition, valuable insights are offered for managers who are thought to be able to manage the motivational climate and take responsibility for individuals learning from mistakes.
Keywords
Supporting Institution
None
Ethical Statement
Scientific research and ethical rules were strictly adhered to throughout the entire process of the study.
Thanks
The author would like to thank the participants who contributed data to the study.
References
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Details
Primary Language
English
Subjects
Organisational Behaviour
Journal Section
Research Article
Authors
Publication Date
April 30, 2026
Submission Date
July 23, 2025
Acceptance Date
December 10, 2025
Published in Issue
Year 2026 Volume: 19 Number: 1