Teaching Knowledge Management in the Context of Information Systems Education: A Foundation for Educators and Curriculum

Samuel Conn, Asst. ProfessorComputer Information Systems

Regis UniversityDenver, Colorado

Abstract

This paper presents research on 6 foundational questions with respect to knowledge management. Knowledge management is a related area to information systems and is relevant as we move from the information economy to the knowledge economy.

Information Systems educators may apply this research in the development of knowledge management curriculum or in teaching the topic in the classroom.

Introduction and Motivation

• The paper represents a qualitative review of some relevant questions related to knowledge management (KM)

• KM is a rapidly advancing area within information systems and is of interest to information systems educators

• The questions in the study came from classroom interactions with students taking a KM course.

• The research provides a foundation for educators and curriculum wanting to include KM as a topical area.

Knowledge Management Context

• KM is not new…the term and concept has been around for some time and is now associated with the “knowledge economy” and the “knowledge worker”.

• Corporate knowledge is derived from the value chain of data -> information -> knowledge

• Knowledge provides a catalyst for innovation, and the ability to innovate at a faster rate than your competitor is essential in the 21st century

• We are moving from the information age/economy to the knowledge age/economy.

Research Questions

(1)What are the modern origins of knowledge management?

(2)Is knowledge management a fad?

(3)How has the knowledge management movement evolved?

(4)Is knowledge management an object, a process, or both?

(5)What are the major differences between knowledge management and information management?

(6)What is meant by intellectual capital or knowledge capital?

Research Outcomes Highlights

• KM has been evolving worldwide for over 25 years, but with distinct differences by geographic area.

• KM is more than a current business fad, although it is a popular topic of business conversation.

• KM has evolved uniquely in North America, Europe, Japan, and China.

• KM has a technology (information systems) component and a cultural component.

• KM is different from information management and encompasses much larger concepts and implications.

• Knowledge capital is now a balance sheet item and can be calculated.

• KM seems to be advancing more rapidly in China than in any other country.

Summary

Knowledge management courses are important to consider in any Information Systems curriculum. Information management is a subset of knowledge management and will continue to play a critical role as the catalyst for innovation in the new economy.

This paper introduces some relevant questions and research related to presenting knowledge management in the context of an information systems curriculum.

Questions or comments…..

Contact information:

Samuel Conn sconn@regis.edu

Charles Thies charles.thies@du.edu