Community-Owned Knowledge: The Promise of Collaborative Action Research

This book aims to transform the workplace by building domestic knowledge and fostering a shared sense of purpose through collaborative action research. It proposes that the more members of an organization become involved in knowledge production, the denser its ability to deliver its mission.

Format: Hardback
Length: 200 pages
Publication date: 30 November 2021
Publisher: Peter Lang Publishing Inc

This book aims to provide a comprehensive framework and essential tools for transforming the workplace. The core framework proposed to educators, school administrators, counselors, parents, and education leaders ranging from kindergarten to college revolves around the concept of building domestic knowledge. By uncovering and nurturing an organization's own knowledge, the book suggests that this collective understanding, skills, and dispositions can ultimately lead to increased local capacity. The more members of an organization engage in knowledge production, the stronger their ability to deliver on their mission. When an organization systematically engages in critical, intentional, and collective action to delve into its daily practices and bring forth knowledge that has not been systematized, the chances of creating a shared sense of purpose and the expertise to fulfill its promises increase significantly. Thus, the book guides the reader through a novel approach to collaborative action research, encompassing every step of this knowledge-making journey.

Introduction:
The workplace is constantly evolving, and organizations must adapt to meet the changing demands of their environment. Traditional approaches to management and leadership may no longer be sufficient, and a new emphasis on knowledge creation and sharing is emerging. This book aims to provide a comprehensive framework and practical tools for facilitating this transformation.

Building Domestic Knowledge:
The core framework proposed in this book revolves around the concept of building domestic knowledge. Domestic knowledge refers to the knowledge that is specific to an organization, its culture, and its stakeholders. It encompasses the collective understanding, skills, and dispositions that employees possess, as well as the expertise and experience they bring to the table. By nurturing and expanding this domestic knowledge, organizations can create a strong foundation for innovation, growth, and competitiveness.

Collective Understanding and Shared Dispositions:
The book posits that when organizations foster a collective understanding and shared dispositions among their members, they are better equipped to respond to the challenges and opportunities that they face. Shared understandings and dispositions enable employees to work together effectively, communicate openly, and collaborate towards common goals. This not only enhances productivity and efficiency but also fosters a sense of belonging and motivation among employees.

Local Capacity and Shared Sense of Purpose:
The more members of an organization become involved in knowledge production, the denser its ability to deliver its stated mission. When an organization systematically implements a critical, intentional, and collective action to dig into its own day-to-day practices and bring up to the surface knowledge that has not been systematized, the higher the chances for the organization to create a shared sense of purpose and the know-how to deliver its promises. This shared sense of purpose can drive employee engagement, motivation, and loyalty, leading to improved performance and organizational success.

Collaborative Action Research:
The book walks the reader through an innovative approach to collaborative action research, which is a powerful tool for facilitating knowledge creation and sharing within organizations. Collaborative action research involves employees working together in teams to identify problems, develop solutions, and implement changes. This approach encourages a sense of ownership and responsibility, as employees are actively involved in the process of knowledge creation.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, this book aims to provide a comprehensive framework and practical tools for transforming the workplace. By building domestic knowledge, fostering collective understanding and shared dispositions, and implementing collaborative action research, organizations can create a culture of innovation, growth, and competitiveness. This transformation not only benefits the organization but also has a positive impact on its employees, customers, and the broader community.

Weight: 395g
Dimension: 225 x 150 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781433189012
Edition number: New ed