Stakeholder design: A cross-case analysis of the transformation of adult experiential learning environments and systems

Date

2008-05

Journal Title

Journal ISSN

Volume Title

Publisher

Texas Tech University

Abstract

There is a schism between what learning systems provide and what adult learners actually need for 21st century learning demands in a ubiquitous, fast-paced Knowledge Economy. Despite the availability of technological advances, higher education insists on traditional teaching modes and instructional models which need restructure and updates. Activities tend to lack relevance or practical skills for transferability into the workforce.

The purpose of this study was to explore a multi-dimensional and highly-contextualized phenomenon known as participatory user design. The research questions addressed how this new technology was leveraged and how it ultimately impacted the learning process for learning gains and performance outcomes. Using the case study method, the researcher as participant-observer obtained rich data by multiple sources from two southwest university (public and private) undergraduate senior-level courses. Using NVivo 7 data management software, a data spiral emerged, from which themes and interrelated dynamics and patterns were developed. A cross-case analysis compared the similarities and differences of the findings.
The major findings revealed that when a stakeholdership with empowerment was formed between Subject-Matter Experts and students, the stakeholdership redefined the concept of learner-centeredness and praxis. The stakeholdership brought higher expectations and standards, and increased the students’ confidence, motivation, and interactivity levels for collaborative learning.
The stakeholder design created a flexible and adaptable workscape.

The study advances the body of knowledge by providing perspectives and new insights through the active “voice” of the front-line users. The implications of these findings are transdisciplinary and relevant to the domains of higher education, business, healthcare, military, and government. The new system design model branded “stakeholder design” will interest educational system designers, educators, learning organizations, and policy makers.

Description

Keywords

Technology leverage, Participatory design, Leveraging

Citation