Using technology-enabled learning networks to achieve practical improvement outcomes in the not-for-profit sector

Research proposal

Executive SummaryThis research proposal concerns the theme of technology-enabled learning networks applied to the subject area of organisational learning and improvement in public service. Current research and expertise being established on technology-enabled learning networks tends to be dominated by academic or professional learning, the primary objective being the improvement of knowledge or practice residing in individuals. However ‘learning within and between organisations has been identified as central to the processes of public service improvement’ (Rashman et al., 2009). Little is known about the mechanisms of technology-enabled organisational learning, despite the implementation of numerous publicly-funded learning network initiatives. Therefore the research focus is on the achievement of practical improvement outcomes using technology-enabled learning networks, in the specific context of the not-for-profit sector. A case study approach is planned, comparing learning networks in the private, public and not-for-profit sectors.

Examples of practical outcomes which organisations could consider include:

changes or improvements to working practice acquiring shared visibility and understanding of organisational processes and

associated guidelines and operating standards achieving more efficient / rapid project co-ordination problem solving and learning lessons from previous problematic scenarios designing and implementing completely new forms of work practice.

The research question is:

How do technology-enabled learning networks contribute to practical improvement outcomes in the not-for-profit sector?

The research sub-questions are:

What practical outcomes are derived from technology-enabled learning networks? How are these achieved? What enables or constrains their achievement?

Learning networks PhD research proposal – Lesley Boyd Version 3.0 November 2015