Exploratory case studies: first steps in linking social capital to knowledge productivity

Abstract

Chapter 2 explores relevant theory on social capital, social networks, learning and knowledge productivity and results in a first framework of their possible interaction. The goal of this chapter is explore in practice how characteristics of social capital relate to knowledge-productive learning processes in networks; and to subsequently determine in what way social relations support to these learning processes. This serves as input for the conceptual framework of this study in Chapter 4. Chapter 2 describes three theoretical perspectives that support this notion: 1 An economical perspective that emphasizes the competitive advantage of organizations by the output of innovation or knowledge productivity (Stam, 2008). Innovation is built around processes of collaboration and interaction (Chesbourgh, 2006). 2 A social network perspective that focuses on the access to and usage of patterns of relations between individuals that enable social learning (Senge & Scharmer, 2006). This is a process built around networks of actors who create and share knowledge with each other. 3 A sociological perspective that elaborates on how structure of and access to social capital influence learning between individuals (Lin, 2001). This is a process determined by aspects such as trust, reciprocity, safety, and shared norms. These aspects show overlap with a supportive learning environment (Harrison & Kessels, 2004).