Modeling learning traits and team performance with knowledge application: Training and education for engineering work teams

Drawing upon the trait activation theory, this paper explains team performance from a mediating perspective of knowledge application, which represents a teamwork process of knowledge management. The empirical results of this study reveal that knowledge application mediates the negative relationship between power distance and team performance and the positive relationship between flexibility orientation and team performance. Teamwork engagement moderates the relationship between learning goal orientation and knowledge application and the relationship between flexibility orientation and knowledge application. Finally, team familiarity moderates the relationship between flexibility orientation and knowledge application. Research implications and limitations are also discussed herein.