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This paper aims to examine the impact of informal learning contextual factors in facilitation workplace learning in the auditing profession.

Multiple linear regression analysis was used to look at the relationship between four aspects of informal learning and the impact on workplace learning using data from a cross-sectional survey of 95 audit professionals.

Correlation analysis identifies men perceive access to time and technology resources differently than women, but regression analysis identifies both genders are impacted by having time to participate in informal learning activities. Older, more experienced auditors’ were not as impacted by informal learning activities, but younger auditors were impacted by management support. Contrasting previous research the significance of a supportive organizational culture suggests the learning culture in public accounting firms’ support knowledge dispersion through the feedback and review process.

This study was tested in one context; it could be expanded to other accounting professionals, to look for generalizability. The technology attribute can be further explored as technology adoption is pushed to new staff; future studies could explore whether the technology attribute becomes significant.

Few studies have looked at the quantitative impact of informal learning in the accounting profession. This study adds to the literature confirming the importance of the pyramid structure in encouraging the development of younger auditors and its perceived positive impact on them. In addition, it extends the importance of the time commitment to personal development, and the role it plays in informal learning.

The purpose was to test how best to bring about informal learning in the auditing profession

The author recruited audit professionals from New England via LinkedIn and asked them to fill in a questionnaire anonymously, which took an average of six minutes and 37 seconds. There were 95 usable responses to the survey, 53% of whom were male and 47% female. A total of 28% were from Big Four firms and 21% were from firms with fewer than 16 audit partners.

The study revealed the value of access to work resources (time), management support and the relevance of age in developing informal learning. It also confirmed the value of the pyramid structure and a review/feedback process, especially for less experienced auditors.

Researchers have tended to focus on formal learning rather than informal learning.