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Power Dynamics and Learning in Collaborations

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  18 September 2015

Nuzhat Lotia
Nuzhat Lotia*
Affiliation:
Department of Management, University of Melbourne, Parkville VIC 3010, Australia Phone:+61 3 8344 0177, Faxe:, +61 3 9349 4293, Email: nuzhatl@unimelh.edu.au
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Abstract

This paper examines the learning process within collaborations from a political perspective and explores the implications of power for the process of learning. The central argument is that the processes of collaboration and collaborative learning are inherently influenced by dynamics of power that occur at the organisational, collaboration and collaboration-environment levels. These power dynamics develop as a consequence of the interactions among collaborating organisations and their power bases. The paper presents a theoretical basis for considering the nature and impact of power dynamics at the various levels on the collaborative learning process and outcomes and sets forth some propositions that provide an agenda for future research.

Type
Research Article
Information
Journal of Management & Organization , Volume 10 , Issue 2 , January 2004 , pp. 56 - 68
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press and Australian and New Zealand Academy of Management 2004

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