Keywords

shared innovation, community of innovation

Abstract

The 21st century economy often requires the innovative production of conceptual and physical artifacts. These innovations frequently are developed collaboratively within communities of workers. Previous theories about the nature of work and learning within communities have emphasized shared meaning or shared practice, but now shared innovation is required. In this paper, I describe the development of a model for conceptualizing and studying shared innovation within communities. This model was created from merging elements of social learning and creativity/innovation theories. I explain that at an intersection of these two domains is a unique kind of social structure, called a Community of Innovation, or COI. I conclude by describing the characteristics of a Community of Innovation and its implications for design and research.

Original Publication Citation

West, R. E. (29). What is shared? A framework for studying communities of innovation. Educational Technology, Research, & Development. 57(3), 315-332.