Transfer of knowledge of retirement workers in a higher education institution

Abstract We sought to understand the importance and contribution of knowledge transfer (KT) of workers in the retirement phase in a higher education institution (HEI). Such research is justified by the fact that KT in retirement is approached by different areas but with little emphasis on administrative sciences. A qualitative case study was carried out based on the theoretical framework of knowledge creation and transference, in which retired workers and managers and young workers participated. Semi-structured interviews and focus groups were carried out with the participation of 32 people and non-participant observation with about 260 workers. Data were organized with the support of NVivo®11 software, triangulated, and analyzed using content analysis. It is stated that KT contributes to improve work relationships and bring people together, acquires a greater degree of autonomy and recognition, perceives opportunities for professional and personal growth, and contributes to the HEI since the institutional history is valued, processes are improved, organizational costs are reduced, and the organizational climate is optimized. It is concluded that different knowledge is important for HEIs and the people who are part of them, and the need to implement actions is highlighted so that knowledge is not lost when the worker retires.

摘要 本研究旨在探究高等教育机构（HEI）内退休工作人员的知识转移（KT）的重要性与贡献。此类研究的合理性在于，尽管不同领域均已对退休场景下的知识转移展开探讨，但行政科学领域对此的关注仍较为匮乏。本研究基于知识创造与转移的理论框架开展质性个案研究，研究对象涵盖退休工作人员、管理人员与青年工作人员。研究共招募32名参与者开展半结构化访谈与焦点小组讨论，并对约260名工作人员实施非参与式观察。研究数据借助NVivo®11软件进行整理，通过三角验证法开展分析，并采用内容分析法进行解读。研究结果表明，知识转移有助于改善工作关系、凝聚团队，可提升工作人员的自主程度与职业认可度，使其感知到职业与个人成长的机遇；同时对高等教育机构亦具积极作用：可留存机构历史、优化工作流程、降低组织成本并改善组织氛围。研究最终得出结论：多元知识对高等教育机构及其从业人员均具有重要价值，并强调需采取相关举措，避免工作人员退休后出现知识流失的问题。