Interpersonal issues in knowledge sharing: the impact of professional discretion in knowledge sharing and learning communities

Maarten van Houten*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleAcademicpeer-review

Abstract

This study aims to provide insight into individual teachers’ behaviour and decisions regarding the exchange of knowledge, focusing on status, interdependence and reciprocity, and psychological safety. It highlights the key role of the individual professional in knowledge-sharing and professional development contexts. A social-constructivist perspective and qualitative design (case study) were employed. Eighteen teachers in upper-secondary vocational education were questioned in interviews or focus groups. Data was analysed by coding, interrelating, and reasoning. Results show how professional discretion directs intercollegial communication and sharing. Interpersonal issues (status, safety, and reciprocity) influence decisions about sharing with or withholding knowledge from certain colleagues. Consequently, professional development and processes of sharing and managing knowledge are in danger of falling flat when ignoring the individual’s impact. This emphasises the importance of individual professionals’ attitudes and preferences, and informal, social structures in approaches to professional development, knowledge-sharing practices, and learning communities.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)116-132
Number of pages17
JournalTeacher Development
Volume27
Issue number1
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2023

Keywords

  • Knowledge sharing
  • knowledge management
  • learning communities
  • professional development
  • professional discretion

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