1 05/01/2023 © Bernard C. Henry 2015

ENHANCING COMMUNITIES OF PRACTICE KNOWLEDGECONVERGENCE THROUGH ONLINE COLLABORATION ACTIVITIES

A Dissertation Presented in Partial Fulfillment Of the Requirements for the Degree

Doctor of Management with Specialization in Information Systems and Technology

Dissertation Title

2 05/01/2023 © Bernard C. Henry 2015

• Robert F. Amason, Jr., PhD, Chair• Dallas K. Cecil, PhD, Committee Member• Leslie G. Kille, EdD, LCSW, Committee Member• Bernard C. Henry, Doctoral Learner

Oral Defense Panel

3 05/01/2023 © Bernard C. Henry 2015

Presentation Outline

1. Problem Statement2. Purpose of the Study3. Research Method and Design4. Research Questions5. Literature Review6. Population and Sample7. Data Collection8. Results

9. Analysis10. Discussions11. Significance to Leadership12. Limitations13. Recommendations14. Questions15. References

4 05/01/2023 © Bernard C. Henry 2015

• The general problem for this research is that the firm may be experiencing degraded performance because of the lack of knowledge convergence among practitioners required to maximize the high-valued knowledge necessary to advance the firm’s effectiveness within the prevailing global economic realities (Bastarache, 2009; Choi, Lee, & Yoo, 2010; Janepuengporn & Ussahawanitchakit, 2011; Kim, 2011; Pinnington & Gray, 2007).

• The specific problem that led the investigation is the lack of data on the effectiveness of knowledge convergence within an online CoP that may counterbalance degraded performance from collaborative efforts particularly through improved problem-solving skills and decision-making abilities using an online collaborative tool such as Moodle (Jean-Paul & Shih, 2011; Kim, 2011; Rockar & Kohun, 2011).

Problem Statement

5 05/01/2023 © Bernard C. Henry 2015

This mixed methods sequential explanatory research investigated whether un-moderated or moderated group-directed participation is better suited for knowledge creation and convergence within an online CoP. Specifically, the scrutiny of the level of degraded professional judgments resulting from the lack of knowledge creation and convergence within this particular set of CoP professionals.

Purpose of the Study

6 05/01/2023 © Bernard C. Henry 2015

Research Method and Design

Sequential Explanatory Research

Design

QUAN

Quasi-experimental Design

Pre & Post Test MC Questionnaire - ANOVA

QUAL

Exploratory Single Case Study

Scenarios - Qualitative Content Analysis

Interviews - Constant Comparative Method

7 05/01/2023 © Bernard C. Henry 2015

Research Questions - QUAN

1. What is the difference between an un-moderated and a moderated online CoP collaboration group's pre- and post-test scores after participating in an online scenario-based discussion to improve problem-solving skills?

2. What is the difference between an un-moderated and a moderated online CoP collaboration group's pre- and post-test scores after participating in an online scenario-based discussion to improve decision-making skills?

8 05/01/2023 © Bernard C. Henry 2015

Research Questions - QUAL

1. What are the perceptions of un-moderated online CoP collaboration group members regarding their learning potential for building their problem-solving skills?

2. What are the perceptions of moderated online CoP collaboration group members regarding their learning potential for building their problem-solving skills?

3. What are the perceptions of un-moderated online CoP collaboration group members regarding their learning potential for building their decision-making abilities?

4. What are the perceptions of moderated online CoP collaboration group members regarding their learning potential for building their decision-making abilities?

9 05/01/2023 © Bernard C. Henry 2015

Literature Review

Source Number

Peer-reviewed scholarly journals 134

Professional organization websites 8

Dissertations and Theses 4

Books 13

Total 159

10 05/01/2023 © Bernard C. Henry 2015

• The sampling frame was selected on the basis of convenience sampling of 55 CoP individuals located in a small Jamaican law firm. Namely, individuals were chosen from a confined population (Steinberg, 2008).

• Three partners were selected using random selection to conduct a pilot test of the research instruments, technology, interview questions, and scenarios for applicability, relevance, accuracy, and reliability prior to conducting the full blown research. The pilot study found no defects.

• Thereafter, a general invitation was issued to the remaining 52 CoP personnel.

Nineteen persons responded positively to the invitation of which 15 persons signed the informed consent form. These 15 persons were randomly assigned to one of two groups; moderated and un-moderated.

Population and Sample

11 05/01/2023 © Bernard C. Henry 2015

Data Collection

[QUAN phase]Data Collection

& Analysis(Online Pre-test Questionnaire)SPSS: ANOVA

[QUAL Phase]Data Collection

& Analysis(Online

Scenarios)NVivo: Content Analysis

[QUAL Phase]Data Collection

& Analysis(Face-to-face Interviews)

NVivo: Constant

Comparative Method

[QUAN Phase]Data Collection

& Analysis(Online Post-

test Questionnaire)SPSS: ANOVA

12 05/01/2023 © Bernard C. Henry 2015

Results

Pre Multiple-choice Questionnaire (see Appendix B)

Questions Mod (M) Un-mod (U) Total (M+U) Mod % Un-mod %Total

(M+U) %

Q1 5 3 8 83.33% 60.00% 72.73%Q2 3 1 4 50.00% 20.00% 36.36%Q3 3 2 5 50.00% 40.00% 45.45%Q4 1 1 2 16.67% 20.00% 18.18%Q5 1 0 1 16.67% 0.00% 9.09%Q6 2 4 6 33.33% 80.00% 54.55%Q7 0 0 0 0.00% 0.00% 0.00%Q8 5 2 7 83.33% 40.00% 63.64%Q9 4 4 8 66.67% 80.00% 72.73%

Q10 4 3 7 66.67% 60.00% 63.64%

Total 6 5 11 100.00% 100% 100%Mean       46.67% 40.00% 43.64%

13 05/01/2023 © Bernard C. Henry 2015

Results

Levene Statistics df1 df2 Sig.

.000 1 18 .995

Test of Homogeneity of Variances TestScore (Pre)

14 05/01/2023 © Bernard C. Henry 2015

Results

Post Multiple-choice Questionnaire (see Appendix B)

QuestionsMod (M)

Un-mod (U)

Total (M+U) Mod %

Un-mod %

Total (M+U) %

Q1 5 2 7 100.00% 40.00% 70.00%Q2 4 3 7 80.00% 60.00% 70.00%Q3 2 4 6 40.00% 80.00% 60.00%Q4 3 4 7 60.00% 80.00% 70.00%Q5 5 3 8 100.00% 60.00% 80.00%Q6 2 3 5 40.00% 60.00% 50.00%Q7 3 3 6 60.00% 60.00% 60.00%Q8 5 2 7 100.00% 40.00% 70.00%Q9 4 2 6 80.00% 40.00% 60.00%

Q10 2 3 5 40.00% 60.00% 50.00%

Total 5 5 10 100.00% 100% 100%Mean       70.00% 58.00% 64.00%

15 05/01/2023 © Bernard C. Henry 2015

Results

Levene Statistics df1 df2 Sig.

6.438 1 18 .021

Test of Homogeneity of Variances TestScore (Post)

16 05/01/2023 © Bernard C. Henry 2015

Results

Moderated Coding by Nodes

17 05/01/2023 © Bernard C. Henry 2015

Results

Un-moderated Coding by Nodes

18 05/01/2023 © Bernard C. Henry 2015

Results

Interviews Coding by Nodes

19 05/01/2023 © Bernard C. Henry 2015

• The one-way between-groups analysis of variance data, in itself, may have provided insufficient evidence to reveal a reliable effect between moderated and un-moderated online group collaboration for improving either decision-making skills or problem-solving abilities, (F 1,18) = 1.670, p = .213, MSerror = .072, α = .05.

• This information is insufficient to derive a reasonable and truthful conclusion within the context of a mixed methods research because of the small size of N (Field, 2012).

• Also, validity and reliability of the research must incorporate the triangulated output of all the research data (Angell & Townsend, 2011; Guion et al., 2011).

• Further analysis of the QUAN data revealed that the mean performance of the groups

implied at least moderate learning among participants. This is evident in each group’s mean scores increasing in the post-test over the pre-test by μ = 23.33 and μ = 18.00 respectively.

Analysis

20 05/01/2023 © Bernard C. Henry 2015

• In addition, the moderated group outperformed the un-moderated group by 12%. This performance outcome is in line with the expectation of Draper (2010) and in keeping with the theory on knowledge convergence (Capdeferro & Romero, 2012; Castle & McGuire, 2010; Larsen, Visser-Rotgans, & Hole, 2011).

• Consistencies with the themes and with word usage in discussing the cases/scenarios, such as, it made me think about compliance with existing rules, it made me consider new policies and procedures, it made me think about how to treat disclosure, it made me think about the need for investigations, it made me value clients' input, and it made me reflect on feedback to clients would infer congruence and knowledge convergence (Jeong & Chi, 2007).

Analysis

21 05/01/2023 © Bernard C. Henry 2015

• Not only did the analysis and outcome of the cases/scenarios endorses the mean scores obtained during the QUAN portion of the exercise, but also its themetic contents seem to conform with the responses that participants provided through the interview process.

• As a matter of fact, similarities in themes within this ultimate stage of the research process revealed agreement and harmony among participants such as, the experience was good for me and the learning environment was acceptable to me.

• Thus, the triangulated analysis of the increased mean scores on the post-test multiple choice questionnaire after participants discussed the cases/scenarios, the confluence of ideas that emerged from discussing the online cases/scenarios, and the thematic contents that eminated from the interviews would infer that both groups; moderated and un-moderated, may have learned from the collaborative exercise (Angell & Townsend, 2011; Guion et al., 2011).

Analysis

22 05/01/2023 © Bernard C. Henry 2015

• Knowledge convergence extends organizations' knowledge abilities through individuals shared reasoning and tacit knowledge amplification (Nonaka & Von Krogh, 2009).

• Knowledge convergence is a means of creating value for an enterprise (Qureshi, Briggs, & Hlupic, 2006).

• The triangulated analysis of the increased mean scores on the post-test multiple choice questionnaire after participants discussed the cases/scenarios, the confluence of ideas that emerged from discussing the online cases/scenarios, and the thematic contents that eminated from the interviews conforms to the theoretical expectation of knowledge convergence (Angell & Townsend, 2011; Draper, 1010).

Discussion

23 05/01/2023 © Bernard C. Henry 2015

• Online group collaboration may build or enhance legal talents in the organization that may likely minimize any degraded professional judgments that attorneys may be experiencing because of their lack of CoP knowledge creation and convergence activities (Angell & Townsend, 2011; Draper, 2010).

• The triangulated conformation indicates that the firm can gain value from online group collaborative efforts to build knowledge convergence within the organization (Angell & Townsend, 2011; Draper, 1010).

Discussion

24 05/01/2023 © Bernard C. Henry 2015

• Leaders direct businesses, and systems are in place to advance processes, outcome, and opportunities (Foon & Nair, 2010; Gardner et al., 2012). Leaders who understand the prevailing modus operandi are more likely to apply relevant and timely decisions to existing situations and circumstances (Bass, 1985; Caldwell et al., 2012; Davenport, 2011; Jelavic & Ling Tan, 2011).

• Online knowledge convergence activities, especially those resulting from actions aimed at building or enhancing decision-making abilities and problem-solving skill-sets would seem appropriate for advancing the organization's growth strategy, longivity, and its ability to compete effectively in the global marketplace (Mariotti & Piscitello, 2010).

Significance to Leadership

25 05/01/2023 © Bernard C. Henry 2015

• The research findings are intended for the scrutinized firm and should therefore not be generalized to other institutions without the appropriate suitability testing for such organizations. Notwithstanding, the results in this study indicate a similar trend to that of Draper (2010).

• According to Neuendorf (2011), content analysis has certain limitations. Neuendorf (2011) noted that the only statistical test for codes is simple percentage. Other concerns include the medium of the message, operationalizing concepts, coding protocols competence, and the reliability of the coding schemes applied (Neuendorf, 2011).

• The scope limited participants engaged within the online CoP exercise to specific activities that require peculiar skill-sets. Thus, its findings cannot reasonably be generalized to instances and institutions that engage different sets of skills and abilities.

Limitations

26 05/01/2023 © Bernard C. Henry 2015

• The firm's leaders should place a high regard on actions and operations that support moderated online group-related activities that build knowledge convergence that will strengthen professional judgements.

• The scope limited participants engaged within the online CoP exercise to specific activities that required peculiar skill-sets and its discoveries are intended for the institution assessed.

• Additional research may thus be necessary to examine if such characteristics may extend to other CoP professionals, organizations, or settings. However, the results in this study indicate a similar trend to that of Draper (2010).

Recommendations

27 05/01/2023 © Bernard C. Henry 2015

Thank You.

Questions

?

28 05/01/2023 © Bernard C. Henry 2015

Angell, B., & Townsend, L. (2011). Designing and conducting mixed methods studies. Retrieved from http://www.sswr.orgBass, B. M. (1985). Leadership and performance beyond expectations. New York, NY: The Free Press.Bastarache, M. (2009). How internationalization of the law has materialized in Canada. Retrieved from http://www.unb.caCaldwell, C., Dixon, R., Floyd, L., Chaudoin, J., Post, J., & Cheokas, G. (2012, August). Transformative leadership: Achieving unparalleled excellence. Journal

of Business Ethics, 109(2), 175-187. doi:10.1007/s10551-011-1116-2Capdeferro, N., & Romero, M. (2012). Are online learners frustrated with collaborative learning experiences? International Review of Research in Open &

Distance Learning, 13(2), 26-44. Retrieved from http://www.irrodl.orgCastle, S. R., & McGuire, C. J. (2010). An analysis of student self-assessment of online, blended, and face-to-face learning environments: Implications for

sustainable education delivery. International Education Studies, 3(3), 36-40. Retrieved from http://www.ccsenet.orgChoi, S. Y., Lee, H., & Yoo, Y. (2010, December). The impact of information technology and transactive memory systems on knowledge sharing, application,

and team performance: A field study. MIS Quarterly, 34(4), 855-870. Retrieved from http://misq.orgDavenport, T. H. (2011). Rethinking knowledge work: A strategic approach. McKinsey Quarterly, 88-99. Retrieved from http://mckinseyquarterly.comDraper, D. C. (2010). The instructional effects of knowledge-based community of practice learning environments on student achievement and knowledge

convergence (Doctoral dissertation). doi:10.1002/piq.21132Field, A. (2012). Discovering statistics one-way independent ANOVA. Retrieved from http://www.discoveringstatistics.comFoon, L. S., & Nair, P. B. (2010, December). Revisiting the concept of sustainable competitive advantage: Perceptions of managers in Mayaysian MNCs.

International Journal of Business & Accountancy, 1(1), 63-78. Retrieved from http://ijba.initmal.edu.myGardner, H. K., Staats, B. R., & Gino, F. (2012, August). Dynamically integrating knowledge in teams: Transforming resources into performance. Academy of

Management Journal, 55(4), 998-1022. doi:10.5465/amj.2010.0604Guion, L. A., Diehl, D. C., & McDonald, D. (2011). Triangulation: Establishing the validity of qualitative studies. Retrieved from http://edis.ifas.ufl.eduJanepuengporn, K., & Ussahawanitchakit, P. (2011). The impacts of knowledge management strategy on organizational performance: An empirical study

of clothing manufacturing businesses in Thailand. International Journal of Business Strategy, 11(1), 92-109. Retrieved from http://connection.ebscohost.com

Jean-Paul, P., & Shih, C. (2011). An empirical study on the combined effects of KM enablers and KM strategies organizational performance: A case study of Taiwan ICDF. Review of Management Innovation & Creativity, 4(10), 1-22. Retrieved from http://www.intellectbase.org

References

29 05/01/2023 © Bernard C. Henry 2015

Jelavic, M., & Ling Tan, N. N. (2011, January). Socio-technical knowledge management and epistemological paradigms: Theoretical connections at the individual and organizational level. Interdisciplinary Journal of Information, Knowledge & Management, 6, 1-16. Retrieved from http://academia.edu

Jeong, H., & Chi, M. T. (2007, July). Knowledge convergence and collaborative learning. Instructional Science, 35(4), 287-315. doi:10.1007/s11251-006-9008-z

Kim, D. (2011). The effects of knowledge sharing on program performance: influences on CPS program performance (Doctoral dissertation). Retrieved from http://scholar.lib.vt.edu

Larsen, A. K., Visser-Rotgans, R., & Hole, G. O. (2011, January-March). Teaching and learning community work online: Can e-learning promote competences for future practice? Journal of Technology in Human Services, 29(1), 13-32. doi:10.1080/15228835.2011.565244

Mariotti, S., & Piscitello, L. (2010, July). International growth of banks: From competence-exploiting to competence-enhancing strategies? Service Industries Journal, 30(7), 1007-1024. doi:10.1080/02642060802311278

Nonaka, I., & Von Krogh, G. (2009, May/June). Tacit knowledge and knowledge conversion: controversy and advancement in organizational knowledge creation theory. Organization Science, 20(3), 635-652. doi:10.1287/orsc.1080.0412

Neuendorf, K. (2011, February). Content analysis - a methodological primer for gender reserach. Sex Roles, 64(3/4), 276-289. doi:10.1007/s11199-010-9893-0

Pinnington, A. H., & Gray, J. T. (2007, July). The global restructuring of legal services work? A study of the internationalisation of Australian law firms. International Journal of the Legal Profession, 14(2), 147-172. doi:10.1080/09695950701616515

Qureshi, S., Briggs, R. O., & Hlupic, V. (2006, May). Value creation from intellectual capital: Convergence of knowledge management and collaboration in the intellectual bandwidth model. Group Decision & Negotiation, 15(3), 197-220. doi:10.1007/s10726-006-9018-x

Rockar, H. M., & Kohun, F. G. (2011). Highs and lows of organizational decision making and the relationship to collaboration and technology tools. Issues in Informing Science and Information Technology, 8, 175-208. Retrieved from http://iisit.org

Steinberg, W. J. (2008). Statistics alive. Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage Publications, Inc.

References