Knowledge Management Education and Training in Academic Institutions in 2012

Abstract

The academic discipline of Knowledge Management is maturing. The maturity of knowledge management scholarship has been considered as well as its curricular coverage and alignment with the needs of business. This research suggests that a mature academic discipline is grounded on a mature academic programme. The research defines five dimensions of a mature academic discipline, including: (1) curriculum design; (2) nature and coverage of research programmes; (3) faculty credentials and status; (4) academic programme administration; and (5) programme goals. Maturity factors are identified for each of the five dimensions. In 2012, an open public survey was conducted to determine the level of maturity of academic programmes in knowledge management. The survey results suggest that while there is notable maturity in curriculum design, the remaining four dimensions — research, faculty credentials, programme administration and programme goals — are immature. The research suggests that additional focus be given to these maturity factors in terms of standards. The research further suggests that an annual survey is needed to track progress towards a mature academic discipline.