Title: An empirical study of factors impacting on knowledge processes in online forums: factors of interest and model outline

Authors: Felix J. Schmitz-Justen, Adalbert F.X. Wilhelm

Addresses: School of Humanities and Social Sciences, International University Bremen (IUB), P.O. Box 750 561, D-28725 Bremen, Germany. ' School of Humanities and Social Sciences, International University Bremen (IUB), P.O. Box 750 561, D-28725 Bremen, Germany

Abstract: Based on a literature review of the fields of research of knowledge management, collaborative systems and online communities, this paper presents an outline of factors expected to contribute to collaborative knowledge creation and knowledge transfer processes in online forums, and proposes corresponding hypotheses. The paper depicts the model|s underlying framework and its general methodological approach, describes the method for the indirect derivation of individual actor|s knowledge process contributions, and expands in detail on input factors expected to contribute to knowledge process–relevant contributions within online forums. Finally, the integration of these factors into a common Measurement and Structural Model is described. The research project is currently being conducted at International University Bremen (IUB).

Keywords: collaborative knowledge management; knowledge processes; knowledge creation; knowledge transfer; online forums; web based communities; lifelong learning.

DOI: 10.1504/IJWBC.2006.011762

International Journal of Web Based Communities, 2006 Vol.2 No.3, pp.318 - 338

Published online: 20 Dec 2006 *

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