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The theoretical connection between Web 2.0 and organisational learning has already been identified in the academic literature (Boateng, Malik and Mbarika, 2009). In addition, recent work undertaken by Baxter, Connolly and Stansfield (2009) has provided a comprehensive understanding of how organisational blogs can, under the right conditions, support the social aspects of organisational learning in software project team environments. Though empirical research into the use of internal blogs in organisations is steadily increasing there appears to be a lack of empirical evidence towards assessing the impact of other Web 2.0 tools such as wikis and online discussion forums in their ability to facilitate organisational learning. Prior research into the uses of wikis and online discussion forums has indicated that dependent on use, these types of Web 2.0 tools have the ability to facilitate knowledge sharing within and among online communities. However, the majority of current research associated with wikis and online discussion forums has been performed within higher educational contexts (Makhoul et al., 2010; Lai and Ng, 2011).
In way of contrast, the aim of this research study will be to compare what are the benefits and barriers of using different Web2.0 tools (eg. wikis and online discussion forums) internally within different organisations for the purposes of organisational learning. This will allow comparisons to be made in relation to the effectiveness of wikis and online discussion forums to distinguish which are more effective and under what circumstances for facilitating organisational learning in different industry contexts. To achieve this aim, the study will adopt a mixed methods approach utilising questionnaires, interviews and focus groups to interpret and triangulate opinion from different organisations about the effectiveness of either using wikis or online discussion forums.
References
Baxter, G.J., Connolly, T.M. and Stansfield, M. (2009). "The socialisation of organisational learning through learning technology", International Journal of Internet & Enterprise Management (IJIEM), Vol. 6, No. 2, pp.164.
Boateng, R., Malik, A. and Mbarika, V. (2009). Web 2.0 and Organizational Learning: Conceptualizing the Link: Proceedings of the Fifteenth Americas Conference Information Systems, San Francisco, California, August 6-9, pp. 1-10.
Lai, Y.C. and Ng, E.M.W. (2010). Using wikis to develop student teachers’ learning, teaching, and assessment capabilities. Internet and Higher Education, Vol. 14, No. 1, Jan. 2011, pp. 15-26.
Makoul, G., Zick, A.B., Aakhus, M., Neely, K.J. and Roemer, P.E. (2010). Using an online forum to encourage reflection about difficult conversations in medicine. Patient Education and Counselling, Vol. 79, No. 1, Apr. 2010, pp. 83-86.
Funding Notes:
Successful candidates will receive a £10000 annual stipend payable for three years and payment of tuition fees (current value £3400).
This studentship is open to Home/EU candidates with a first degree in a relevant discipline.
Non-EU students can apply, but will not receive the stipend and will be required to pay fees.
Candidates must be available to commence their studies in October 2012.
All interviews will take place during between 21st May and 8th June 2012.
Please note that this project is part of a competitive round and there is no guarantee that it will be awarded.
References:
REFERENCES
How to apply:
Postgraduate Degree by Research Applications should be completed online at http://www.uws.ac.uk/research/research-degrees/apply/
Please quote the Project Reference Number when applying.
Applications without all relevant documents will not be considered.
If you have any queries please contact Charlie Fielding on + 44 (0)141 848 3919 or email PGR@uws.ac.uk