Designing a knowledge creation model using a problem-based learning approach to enhance innovation in a high-technology production environment

Abstract

Knowledge creation (KC) is a critical part of innovation. The researcher will demonstrate that knowledge creation is a learning process that is triggered by problems. The researcher will further show that KC depends on knowledge resources being available and will show that KC may lead to innovation. The researcher will then develop a KC model. This model builds on methodologies from the fields of innovation and learning to create a template for measuring and viewing the KC capability in a selected organisation. The model proposes a framework that may assist managers and executives to make each work-related problem an opportunity for learning and therefore KC. The model further aims to serve as a benchmark tool to analyse KC activities. This dissertation will therefore aim to understand and identify the knowledge-creation processes and conditions that may lead to enhanced knowledge creation and innovation capability in the organisational environment. By means of a literature review the theory of innovation will be scrutinised in terms of the main drivers for innovation. The literature review will then establish the link between innovation and KC. Access to knowledge resources will be proven to form the foundation for learning that leads to KC. The literature review will further establish that problem-based learning is a cognitive approach that assists in solving problems by means of gradual processes. The research aims to show that the application of the principles of problem-based learning will enable KC in workplace environments. Based on the research gathered through the literature review a model will be created that will guide learning processes for KC activities. The research will investigate the organisational learning domains in order to identify the learning mechanism that leads to KC and innovation. This will be done by both qualitative and quantitative measures. Guided by the developed model, qualitative research will be completed to determine the existing KC landscape in the organisation under study. The aim of this research will thus be two fold to gather information about the organisation under study as well as to validate the KC model