Knowledge Practices Laboratory (KP-Lab)
Project site
(KP-Lab consortium)
Keywords
workplace learning, innovation, knowledge creation, EU
Overview
The EU-funded research project Knowledge Practices Laboratory (KP-Lab) explores practices and tool use in creation and transformation of shared knowledge artifacts. InterMedia is involved in developing theoretical foundations, and case studies in workplaces.
Aims
KP-Lab aims at facilitating innovative practices of working with knowledge ("knowledge practices") in education and workplaces. Learning and knowledge creation is collaborative efforts to transform tools and social practices. This project will contribute to theories, tools, and practical models that elicit deliberate advancement and creation of knowledge (the trialogical knowledge-creation approach) as well as corresponding transformation of knowledge practices in European education and workplaces. The project aims to contribute to innovation in several ways. As a theoretical innovation KP-Lab presents an approach to learning and human cognition going beyond acquisition and participation metaphors. As a pedagogical innovation, KP-Lab involves organizing for complex problem solving in workplaces and networks they are part of to elicit boundaries and barriers between education and professional cultures. As a technological innovation KP-Lab will provide modular, flexible and extensible systems of inter-operable tools, services and functionalities. As a social innovation, KP-Lab puts reflective social practices around shared knowledge artifacts into the core of Technology - Enhanced Learning.
Methods
InterMedia is involved in developing theoretical foundations for the project, and empirical case studies of selected knowledge practices in workplaces. We have set up case studies with
a) longitudinal, descriptive and historical analyses of evolving knowledge practices with existing and new tools
b) interventionist perspective - design and implement new tools and/or customize / adapt existing ones
c) use, testing and evaluation of new tools in different time spans
Data are collected by participant observation (video, audio and field notes), stakeholder interviews, document reviews and surveys.
Partners
KP-Lab has 22 partners from all over Europe and Israel, and is coordinated by the University of Helsinki.
Period of Duration
2006-2011
Outcomes
Related projects
Our empirical case studies of knowledge practices in work places
Funding
EU's 6th framework for research, Integrated Project
