Date of Graduation

5-2024

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Education in Human Resource and Workforce Development (EdD)

Degree Level

Graduate

Department

Counseling, Leadership, and Research Methods

Advisor/Mentor

Jim Maddox

Committee Member

Kit Kacirek

Second Committee Member

Yuanlu Niu

Keywords

Appreciative Inquiry; Knowledge Creation; Knowledge Seeking; Knowledge Sharing; Tacit Knowledge

Abstract

In today’s dynamic workplaces, knowledge exchange among employees is vital for organizational innovation and competitive advantage. However, existing literature on knowledge management has primarily focused on knowledge sharing, neglecting the proactive process of knowledge seeking, particularly regarding tacit knowledge. This study aims to bridge this gap by exploring the social process of tacit knowledge seeking in the workplace. Using appreciative inquiry as a method for collecting data, this qualitative exploratory single case study examines how employees seek tacit knowledge in an international consumer products organization. Guided by a social constructionist framework and appreciative perspective, the study seeks to understand the process of tacit knowledge seeking, shedding light on its essence, life giving features, and possibilities for what could be. The findings underscore the significance of tacit knowledge seeking in organizational learning and innovation. They offer insights for HRD professionals to design interventions that promote knowledge transfer and creation. Furthermore, the study suggests that organizations should foster a culture of collaboration and trust to facilitate tacit knowledge exchange. The implications extend to the development of a comprehensive model or framework for understanding the process of tacit knowledge seeking. This study emphasizes the importance of actively pursuing tacit knowledge to unlock organizational potential. By embracing tacit knowledge seeking, HRD professionals can shape a future where knowledge flows freely, barriers dissolve, and innovation thrives, ultimately enriching organizational effectiveness and enhancing the employee experience.

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