Knowledge sharing in immersive virtual communities of practice

Abstract

Purpose This paper aims to improve understanding of knowledge‐sharing (KS) processes that occur in Immersive Virtual Worlds (IVW), which offer much richer opportunities for KS than standard text‐based environments. Design/methodology/approach Starting with a systematic literature review of the most recent trends in knowledge‐sharing and virtual worlds, this research investigates potential factors of KS in IVW. A conceptual model was developed and empirically validated. Findings The rich environment provided by IVW results in higher levels of KS but a sense of community and other motivations for KS in IVW is the same as in standard virtual environments. The validated research model that explains the interaction of the motivating factors with KS is presented. Research limitations/implications Primary data were collected from only one group in one IVW. This may limit the scope of generalisation of findings. It is advised that this study should be conducted with a number of immersive virtual communities or practice (IVCoP) in a variety of virtual worlds. Practical implications Owners and managers of IVWs should promote perception of community, trust and reciprocity, as they are very important for keeping and growing virtual communities in immersive environments. Concurrently it is necessary to ensure that the amount of social part introduced is in line with the goals of the community. Originality/value This research proposes a model for knowledge sharing in virtual communities of practice (CoP) in immersive virtual worlds (IVW). It may be used to evaluate the functioning of such communities of practice. It also suggests methods of research in such an environment.