Learning through online discussion: a case of triangulation in research

This paper reports on issues in carrying out research into online discussion. The context is a study of a distance learning module within an MBA program. The module required students to tackle problems based on real life scenarios within small online groups. Students were studying part time and shared similar professional backgrounds. The research looked at students' overall evaluation of the module, ways in which group work was conducted, and the contribution of the tutor. The approach taken was an interpretive case study using questionnaire survey, text analysis and interviews. The main findings from the study are reported, but the focus is on the strengths of, and difficulties in, using the research methods. Triangulation of methods provides the researcher with a greater degree of confidence in reporting findings, although subjective interpretation is still needed

The Factors Affecting Innovative Behavior: An Employee Assessment System Based on Knowledge Creation

Organizations thrive on the innovative behavior of their personnel, but the specific factors that influence such behavior are not widely established, especially in the Thai context. An examination of the literature reveals that the knowledge management (KM) process, which has its basis in the process of knowledge creation known as the SECI process, serves to promote innovative behavior and is a key driver of competitive advantage within innovative organizations. This research study sought to determine which factors account for success in innovation, and to establish an assessment system to evaluate employee innovation. The study sample comprised 500 employees from companies operating in the technology sector. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was carried out, and an eight-factor model was formulated on the basis of the available data. The eight factors in the model were determined to have a significant influence on the success of innovative behavior observed in Thai companies. The relevant factors comprised Sharing of knowledge (SK), Self-efficacy (SE), Problem solving skills (PS), Collaboration ability (CA), Culture of innovation (CI), Organizational support (OS), Culture of learning (CL), and Executive leadership (EL). Within the organizational context, the findings reveal the statistically significant contribution of Sharing of knowledge, Culture of innovation, Organizational support, and Self-efficacy in the promotion of innovative behavior. The study results may prove helpful for organizations wishing to assess the innovative capabilities of their staff, while the success factors may be implemented within organizations through the practical application of an assessment system. Also, by filling a research gap in the literature review, this work will be beneficial to academics and researchers in order to better promote innovative behavior. Doi: 10.28991/HIJ-2023-04-01-012 Full Text: PD

The Need for Knowledge Acquisition Tools by Small Business Entrepreneurs: The Case of Financial Knowledge Acquisition of Restaurant Entrepreneurs

This study investigates the relationship between the need for knowledge acquisition tools and the level of knowledge acquisition in the context of financial knowledge, as well as the use of different knowledge acquisition tools by small restaurant entrepreneurs. This study involves two phases.  In phase 1, a qualitative approach was employed using an in-depth interview method. In-depth interviews were conducted with 9 small restaurant entrepreneurs in order to obtain insight into their level of knowledge acquisition in the context of financial knowledge, their level of use for various knowledge acquisition tools (websites, Facebook, Line, YouTube, blogs, and mobile phone application), and their need for knowledge acquisition tools. Interview responses are explored using a thematic content analysis. In phase 2, a quantitative approach was employed using a survey questionnaire, collecting responses from 320 small restaurant entrepreneurs. Through data generated from questionnaire responses,   a  hierarchical  multiple   regression  was  used  to  determine   the relationship between the need for knowledge acquisition tools, and the level of knowledge acquisition in the context of financial knowledge. Cluster analysis techniques were used to identify the level of use for various knowledge acquisition tools, distributing entrepreneurs into different levels. The Cochran Q-test and McNemar test were used to study the difference in use of each knowledge acquisition tool by these entrepreneurs. The result suggests that small restaurant entrepreneurs with a greater need for financial knowledge acquisition tools tentatively acquire more financial knowledge. There is a difference in the level of use of knowledge acquisition tools by entrepreneurs, while the tools most commonly used for gaining financial knowledge are websites and Facebook