Learning conversations: knowledge, meanings and learning networks in Greater Manchester

Abstract

PurposeThis article advances some reflections on learning and knowledge‐sharing strategies within a social learning context in a potential knowledge city (KC).Design/methodology/approachFor this purpose a reflective sense‐making research exercise has been accounted, aiming to take a closer look at the societal tissue configurations in the Greater Manchester city‐region. An unambiguous emphasis on learning conversations is advanced, conveying the underlying KBD assumptions that only shared knowledge amongst knowledge citizens contributes to the city's system of capitals; and that learning is thus collective, constructive and conversational. Following this approach, the article interprets the KC emergence of the Manchester city‐region as a complex collage of interconnected knowledge moments intrinsically linked to collective learning experiences and thus profoundly conversational.FindingsSuch an approach has drawn forth implications for the role of knowledge moments in this city's knowledge‐based emerging development as a KC. By bringing dialogues, thoughts and conversations to the research surface, new insights on the theoretical relationships between knowledge, learning and conversations have started to emerge. By giving an account of how knowledge citizens witness, create and foster shared key knowledge moments, this article has sought to comprehend Manchester's knowledge city initiative as a conversing city.Originality/valueThis article advances some reflections on learning and knowledge‐sharing strategies within a social learning context in a potential knowledge city.