Development of a Japanese Version of the Organizational Learning Scale: Validity and Reliability

Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed to develop a Japanese version of the Organizational Learning Instrument (OLI) for nurses working in hospital units and to evaluate its reliability and validity.

Methods: The Japanese version of the OLI was developed, and a questionnaire survey was administered to nurses at a university hospital in the Tokyo metropolitan area. Data from 279 respondents were analyzed. Reliability was assessed using Cronbach’s α and intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC), while validity was examined through confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), construct validity, and criterion-related validity.

Results: The initial CFA indicated that the model fit indices did not meet the acceptable criteria. However, after model modification, the model fit improved, supporting construct validity. Criterion-related validity was confirmed, with correlation coefficients ranging from .36 to .63. Cronbach’s α coefficients for all subscales exceeded .70, demonstrating internal consistency. Regarding temporal stability, ICC values were in the .40s for some subscales and ranged from .60 to .73 for others, indicating overall acceptable stability.

Conclusion: The Japanese version of the OLI demonstrated criterion-related validity, internal consistency, and temporal stability. Although construct validity required model modification, the instrument exhibited adequate reliability and validity. This scale may serve as a useful tool for evaluating organizational learning among hospital nurses in Japan.