Encouraging Participation in Virtual Communities of Practice within the United States Air Force

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Author(s): Nick Bowersox (TUI University, USA)
Copyright: 2011
Pages: 14
Source title: Social Knowledge: Using Social Media to Know What You Know
Source Author(s)/Editor(s): John P. Girard (Minot State University, USA)and JoAnn L. Girard (Sagology, USA)
DOI: 10.4018/978-1-60960-203-1.ch011

Keywords: Information Science Reference / Media & Communications / Social Computing / Social Networking

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Abstract

With the growth of information and communication technology (ICT) such as the internet, email, and video conferencing, the United States Air Force has become more efficient and productive in conducting its daily business. However, not only do computer technologies increase daily productivity rates among the employees; they also increase the Air Force’s capability to digest larger amounts of information while supporting an end goal of being able to share that information across the entire organization. Perhaps one of the most popular methods by which to share such large amounts of organizational information is through informal learning environments such as communities of practice. The Air Force has no doubt embraced the concept of communities of practice. However, as popular as these “communities” are among many employees, there is still a majority of Air Force employees who choose not to use them. The purpose of this chapter is to provide practical ways in which the United States Air Force can increase participation in Virtual Communities of Practice (VCoPs) among its workforce, as well as providing theoretical frameworks upon which further research can be conducted. Finally, this chapter will propose a set of testable propositions that may serve as the basis for future research.

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Encouraging Participation in Virtual Communities of Practice within the United States Air Force

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