Evaluating Knowledge Sharing Factors based on Web-Based Learning: An Activity Theory Approach

In today’s competitive global economy characterized by knowledge economics, the concept of knowledge management is becoming increasingly prevalent in academic practices. Web-based technology facilitates knowledge management practices by allowing the dissemination of knowledge and making codified knowledge retrievable. Knowledge sharing is the behavior of disseminating one’s acquired knowledge with other learners in a learning environment. Based on activity theory, the authors attempt to investigate the predictors of knowledge sharing in the Web-Based Learning (WBL) environment. The purpose of this evaluation is not only to help instructors to know if online learners are experiencing difficulties, but also to assist with individual needs. Results prove that learners’ self-efficacy and learner autonomy were two predictors that affected learners in constructing knowledge by using WBL. Moreover, WBL was an important factor affecting learners’ knowledge sharing. DOI: 10.4018/978-1-4666-0137-6.ch017