Measuring the Effect of Equality Matching Relationships on Lecturers’ Knowledge Sharing Behavior

Abstract

In a knowledge-based economy - especially in higher education institutions such as universities - human resources have become a valuable asset because of their knowledge. The constant changes and challenges of the application of theories in industry force universities to change and adapt quickly. In university, the creation and application of new knowledge can be achieved by enhancing knowledge-sharing behavior among lecturers. Knowledge-sharing is often erroneously seen as natural activity of lecturers, given their role. In fact, knowledge-sharing is not easily implemented. Lecturers can share and hoard their knowledge as they see fit. There are many factors that can affect knowledge-sharing behavior. One of them is social relationships. This study examines the effect of social relationships on knowledge-sharing behavior among lecturers by using a Theory of Reasoned Action model behavior prediction and equality matching relationship. This study applied a quantitative approach whereby the data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire distributed to 154 lecturers in business and management study programs in Indonesia. The study reveals that equality matching relationships significantly influence a lecturer’s attitude toward knowledge-sharing. This type of relationship requires lecturers to have equal and unique knowledge before engaging in knowledge-sharing. DOI: 10.5901/mjss.2015.v6n6p546