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

van Houten, M. M. (2023) Interpersonal issues in knowledge sharing: the impact of professional discretion in knowledge sharing and learning communities. Teacher Development, 27(1), pp. 116-132. (doi: 10.1080/13664530.2022.2156590)

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.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: van Houten, Maarten
• Authors: van Houten, M. M.
• College/School: College of Social Sciences > School of Education
• Journal Name: Teacher Development
• Publisher: Taylor and Francis
• ISSN: 1366-4530
• ISSN (Online): 1747-5120
• Published Online: 15 December 2022
• Copyright Holders: Copyright © 2022 The Author(s)
• First Published: First published in Teacher Development 27(1):116-132
• Publisher Policy: Reproduced in accordance with the copyright policy of the publisher