Learning for expertise in collaborative networks – Insights of practitioners

Abstract

In this work in process study the focus is on work place learning in network context. We conduct a qualitative case study focusing on two service networks. The interest is in the experiences of experts, who have a key role in facilitating network collaboration and activities. Drawing from the network and learning network literature together with the insights of workplace learning, we explore learning on different levels and analyze the characteristics of the learning process in the network context. Our research also contributes to the discussion about learning networks research, since we argue that even networks established without specific learning objectives can become learning networks. Our findings indicate that a network provides a platform for developing expertise through progressive problem solving. In our study we also highlight the importance of network facilitation and explore the experiences of experts having central role in facilitating collaboration and coordinating the network. This study offers a fine-grained analysis of learning on different levels and also highlights the elements that support learning in different levels. This study also provides practical knowledge about learning on different levels and factors to be considered and developed in order to support learning in networks.</p