Higher Education Consortia as an Occasion for Organizational Learning

• In Event: Crossing Institutional Boundaries: Collaborations Between Higher Education and Other Sectors

Abstract

As colleges and universities continue to form and sustain collaborative partnerships through higher education consortia, interesting questions arise about the value of these collaboratives for knowledge sharing. This study investigates the relationship between participation in the Colonial Academic Alliance (CAA), knowledge sharing across institutional boundaries, and organizational learning within member institutions. Using the 4I framework (Crossan et al., 1999) we surveyed CAA participants on knowledge sharing practices. Study findings inform higher education research and practice through a systematic investigation of the strategic value of consortia participation. In keeping with the theme of the AERA annual meeting, “To Know Is Not Enough,” this study provides empirically-based insight on one popular mechanism for knowledge sharing and advancement within institutions of higher education.

Authors

• Diana Burley, The George Washington University

• Mary Frances Forcier, Colonial Academic Alliance

• Lesley-Anne Pittard, University of Wisconsin-Madison

• Susan Swayze, The George Washington University