A Study of the Use of Video Conferencing Technology in Training as an Effective Mode of Training for Financial Advisors in Hong Kong

Kan, Chi-Yin (2024) A Study of the Use of Video Conferencing Technology in Training as an Effective Mode of Training for Financial Advisors in Hong Kong. Doctoral thesis, University of Wales Trinity Saint David.

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Abstract

Over the years, the financial advisory industry has been a cornerstone of the economy of Hong Kong, operating under stringent government regulations. More recently, financial institutions have recognised the importance of upgrading their employees’ knowledge and skills to meet regulatory requirements and customer expectations. Staff training plays a crucial role in enhancing performance, making well-organised professional training vital for the industry’s success. The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 disrupted normal business operations in Hong Kong. Traditional face-to-face educational and corporate training programmes were suspended, highlighting the need to explore alternative modes of training delivery. Many companies and educational institutions turned to video conferencing software, such as Zoom and Teams, to continue training their staff remotely. This study aims to assess the impact of integrating video conferencing technology into training programmes for financial advisors on the trainees, trainers, and senior management within the industry. The specific objectives include: 1. Investigating the perceptions and satisfaction levels of trainees, trainers, and senior management regarding the use of video conferencing technology in training programmes. 2. Exploring the strengths and weaknesses of various training modes and identifying critical success factors for utilising video conferencing technology in the training of financial advisors in Hong Kong. The research follows a mixed-method sequential explanatory study approach. Quantitative data, derived from a questionnaire survey conducted across three training modes (face-to-face, hybrid, and video conferencing), were evaluated using the Kirkpatrick model’s four levels of training effectiveness. The survey sought to gauge the perceptions and satisfaction levels of trainees, trainers, and senior management regarding different training approaches. Comparative data analysis was performed using statistic software, Jamovi, to evaluate the effectiveness of each training mode. Qualitative data was collected through semi-structured interviews with 22 participants, including financial trainees, trainers, and senior management. Thematic analysis was employed to explore stakeholders’ perspectives on the various training methods. The findings reveal that participants acknowledge the benefits of using video conferencing technology in training, such as cost-effectiveness, scalability, and flexibility. However, challenges like inadequate technical skills among trainers, limited interactions, and security concerns were identified. Critical success factors for successful implementation of video conferencing training include trainers’ adaptability to non-traditional methods and proficiency in virtual environments. Overall, the research demonstrates positive and significant impacts of video conferencing technology on training for financial advisors in Hong Kong. These impacts extend to training effectiveness, industry practices, resource accessibility, technological skill development, and broader implications for professional training across industries. The study suggests that video conferencing technology holds promise for driving positive changes in the professional training of financial advisors.

Item Type:	Thesis (Doctoral)
Subjects:	H Social Sciences > HD Industries. Land use. Labor > HD28 Management. Industrial Management
Divisions:	Theses and Dissertations > Doctoral Theses
Depositing User:	Victoria Hankinson
Date Deposited:	24 Jan 2025 14:02
Last Modified:	24 Jan 2025 14:02
URI:	https://repository.uwtsd.ac.uk/id/eprint/3352

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