A process-based knowledge management system for schools: a case study in Taiwan

Abstract

Knowledge management systems, or KMSs, have been widely adopted in business organizations, yet little research exists on the actual integration of the knowledge management model and the application of KMSs in secondary schools. In the present study, the common difficulties and limitations regarding the implementation of knowledge management into schools’ organizational cultures are reviewed and discussed. Furthermore, relevant theories of knowledge management models are summarized, and a model of process-based knowledge management appropriate for schools is proposed.

Based on the proposed model, this study applied a low-cost, open-source software development framework to establish a process-based knowledge management system for schools, or PKMSS. We conducted a 30-day empirical observation and survey at a secondary school in Taiwan. This case study used methods including a satisfaction survey, qualitative content analysis of knowledge discussion, and unstructured interviews to explore the progress, performance, and limitations of PKMSS implementation. It was determined that PKMSS has some value in promoting schools’ knowledge management. It not only facilitates the externalization and combination of knowledge and effectively keeps the objectives of knowledge sharing in focus, but it also promotes inter-member interactions. However, this study also found certain restrictions in terms of the classification of knowledge content and system functions. Based on the above findings, we propose relevant suggestions as references for the evaluation and introduction of a KMS in educational organizations.