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Confronted with the rapid technological changes and increased global competition, training of employees now focused on self-directed development (SDD). Despite the recognition of self-directed development, only few empirical studies have investigated the combined relationship of both predictors and outcomes simultaneously. This research attempted to develop and test a conceptual model of SDD, which includes both individual and contextual factors as predictors and outcomes, following an input-process-output perspective. The model was validated through SEM analysis from a sample of 383 working business students.

In general, results indicate that SDD is a mix of both individual and contextual factors that lead to positive outcomes. The findings offer new insights into the way organizations can improve employee development through SDD. However, unexpected findings were also noted. Job autonomy has an insignificant relationship, whereas empowerment and proactive personality were weakly associated with SDD.

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