Informal e-learning : the case of small business owners
Data(s) |
2014
|
---|---|
Resumo |
Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to investigate the use of an informal online discussion forum (ODF) to encourage voluntary participation and promote double-loop learning by small business owners (SBOs). Design/methodology/approach - A qualitative methodology was used where data gathered from three sources, the ODF posts, in-depth interviews with participants and a focus group with non-participants. These were analysed to evaluate learning of SBOs in an ODF. Findings - This research provides evidence that an ODF for SBOs supports double-loop learning; however, participation could not be assumed simply by the online availability of the discussion resource. Research limitations/implications - Few SBOs participated in the ODF which is consistent with research finding SBOs are a difficult group to engage in learning. Four forms of data were analysed to strengthen results. Practical implications - Caution should be exercised when considering investment in e-learning for SBOs. Originality/value - Evidence showing e-learning through an informal voluntary ODF can promote deep learning for SBOs. |
Identificador | |
Publicador |
Emerald Group Publishing Ltd. |
Relação |
DOI:10.1108/ET-03-2013-0047 Smith, Tara & Barrett, Rowena (2014) Informal e-learning : the case of small business owners. Education + Training, 56(2/3), pp. 219-232. |
Fonte |
QUT Business School; School of Management |
Palavras-Chave | #150305 Human Resources Management #150314 Small Business Management #Learning #Informal Learning #E-learning #Online Discussion Forum #Small Business Owner |
Tipo |
Journal Article |