Knowledge Management

Note: This module is available for Continual Professional Development and can be taken without assessment by professionals if wished.

This module analyses the role of knowledge as a resource in the learning organisation today. It considers the concepts of knowledge management alongside the organisational and individual factors which must be interpreted when implementing knowledge management systems within organisations and adding organisational value. Drawing on a range of disciplines it evaluates social, structural, intellectual and relationship capital for organisations and considers appropriate strategic responses.  This module will draw on the research of the WBS Business Information and Communication Research Cluster.

 Key words: knowledge management, knowledge management strategies, intellectual capital.

 Module Aims:

·      To develop an understanding of the different forces that help shape the various perspectives on knowledge management;

·      To create an appreciation of the tangible and intangible nature of knowledge activities and the product of those activities;

·      To encourage thinking with regard to the strategic dimension associated with knowledge management within the context of the broader organisational business strategy and the corporate environment;

·      To increase awareness and self-critical thinking through individual reflection and collective knowledge working.

Learning Outcomes:

On completion of the module students will be able to:

1.    Conduct self appraisal and reflection upon their own KM practice and that of others;

2.    Critically assess the competing theories and concepts proposed as representing the domain of knowledge management;

3.    Identify the differing characteristics of organisations and enable the creation of more appropriate and focused strategies to support knowledge working and knowledge initiatives;

4.    Explain the importance of organisational learning to knowledge management and the role of information and knowledge sharing within this endeavour.

Indicative Syllabus Content:

1. The driving forces behind the Knowledge Economy and Competitive Advantage;

2. Knowledge Management Concepts: Organic and Mechanistic Knowledge Management, generations of Knowledge Management;

3. Knowledge Management strategies and Organisational Fit; the Distributed Organisation; the Adaptive Organisation;

4. The nature and characteristics of organisations; Social Capital; social networks, trust, relationships & communities; Intellectual Capital;

5. The role, nature and application of technology and technologies.

ECoakes