Digital Competence as a Mediating Mechanism Between Organizational Support, Reverse Mentoring, and Knowledge Sharing in Vocational Education
Keywords:
dgital competence, knowledge sharing, organisational support, reverse mentoring, vocational educationAbstract
This study examines the mediating role of digital competence in the relationship between organizational support, reverse mentoring participation, and knowledge sharing behavior among middle managers in vocational colleges. Drawing upon organizational support theory and social learning theory, digital competence is conceptualized as a capability-based mechanism that enables effective knowledge exchange in digitally transforming educational institutions. A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 408 middle managers from vocational colleges in China. Data were analyzed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). The findings indicate that organizational support (β = 0.425, p < 0.001) and reverse mentoring participation (β = 0.411, p < 0.001) significantly enhance digital competence. Digital competence positively influences knowledge sharing behavior (β = 0.215, p < 0.001) and significantly mediates both relationships. The structural model explains 45.1% of the variance in digital competence and 55.0% of the variance in knowledge sharing behavior. The findings highlight the strategic importance of capability development in supporting knowledge exchange within vocational education institutions undergoing digital transformation.
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