Knowledge Networks: Innovation through Communities of Practice
Editors, Paul Hildreth and Chris Kimble
Publisher, Idea Group Publishing
Hard cover ISBN: 159140200X
Soft cover ISBN: 1591402700
Chapter 16 - BUILDING A COMMUNITY OF PRACTICE: TECHNOLOGICAL AND SOCIAL IMPLICATIONS FOR A DISTRIBUTED TEAM
Abstract
This chapter looks at the work of a team of remote workers and how they have developed into a Community of Practice (CoP). It explores the roles that technology and communication methods have on the formation and development of the community. In telling the story of the progression from a team of individuals to a CoP, the chapter provides a practical guide to others wishing to do the same. Two aspects of the work of the team are considered in depth: 1) Building Communication Systems across a Distributed CoP 2) Building commitment, ownership, engagement and focus in a Distributed CoP The team and community on which the chapter is based is one of some 20 people working remotely for Ultralab, a learning, technology and research centre in Chelmsford UK. The work of the team is online facilitation for the National College of School Leadership (NCSL). The team meet together approximately four times a year, using an online community space, the Facilitators' Forum, as their day-to-day working space.
Authors
Pete Bradshaw
Stephen Powell
Dr Ian Terrell
