Influence of Digital Transformation Practices on Job Embeddedness of Academicians in Higher Education Institutions

Abstract

Digital transformation has significantly reshaped the functioning of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs), influencing academic work processes, teaching-learning practices, research activities and administrative systems. In this context, understanding how digital transformation practices affect academicians’ attachment to their institutions has become increasingly important. This study investigates the influence of digital transformation practices on the job embeddedness of academicians in Higher education institutions. Drawing on Job embeddedness theory, the study conceptualizes digital infrastructure, technology- enabled pedagogy and digital support systems and analyses their impact on the dimensions of job embeddedness.
Using a quantitative research design, data are collected from academicians working in selected HEIs through structured questionnaire, and the proposed relationships are tested using appropriate statistical techniques. The findings are expected to provide empirical evidence on the extent to which digital transformation practices enhance academicians’ organisational fit, strengthen professional and social linkages, and increase perceived sacrifice associate with leaving the institution. The study contributes to the human resource management and higher education literature by integrating digital transformation and job embeddedness perspectives and offers practical implications for institutional leaders and HR managers to leverage digital intiatives as a strategi tool for improving academicians’ retention and engagement in the digital era.