[[alternative]]Linking Knowledge Sharing and Organizational Learning in Business Communities of Practice

[[abstract]]Linking Knowledge Sharing and Organizational Learning in Business Communities of Practice The main purpose of this study is to probe the relationship between knowledge sharing and organizational learning in business communities of practice. In this study, the author employed a qualitative research approach, a literature review, and a multi-case study of documentation analysis, observations, and in-depth interviews. With the research objects selected purposeful sampling was employed to explore six cases, which are labeled A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, and C2. Finally, triangulation and member checking were used during the study to ensure quality. The project has taken two and a half years and the conclusion is as following: 1.There are six factors to consider in approaching communities of practice, including the origin of communities, the types of communities, the range of communities, the positioning of communities, the plan of communities, and the context of communities. 2.Three dimensions were identified: the way of knowledge sharing, the issue of knowledge sharing, and the method of knowledge sharing. 3.The roles of communities of practice in promoting organizational learning and overcoming organizational learning disabilities. 4. Both knowledge sharing and organizational learning interaction in communities of practice and, the concept of an “organizational learning cycle” accelerate the innovation of knowledge in companies. 5.Members of communities prefer informal learning to formal learning to improve their mental model and knowledge sharing. If members of communities are willing to share their knowledge with others, it inspires their learning motivation. 6. The style and technique of team learning influences the motivation and behavior of knowledge sharing among the members of communities. On the other hand, these members sharing their knowledge with others also facilitate the ability for team learning. 7. The softened learning environment is more influential than hardware learning equipment concerning the knowledge sharing of members of communities