Exploring Learner and Environmental Factors in Facilitating Networked Learning Within the Workplace

Purpose Networked learning facilitates collaboration and learning interactions. This study aims to explore networked learning in the workplace (knowledge sharing and connection building) and gain insights into the contextual factors (learner and environmental) of learning interactions. Design/methodology/approach Thematic analysis was conducted to explore how learning interactions were facilitated among healthcare workers in a large hospital in Singapore. This study examined both the learner and environmental factors of learning interactions. Interview and focus group discussions qualitative data were included in the analysis. Findings The findings of this study reveal that more emphasis can be placed on the environmental factors, and targeting these factors would provide a good foundation for networked learning in the workplace, whereas learner factors could be promoted to enhance additional learning interactions. This study also found that workers learn most frequently from experienced seniors, indicating the value of mentorship programmes in fostering high-quality learning interactions. Originality/value This paper sheds light on the comprehensive set of factors that encourage networked learning among healthcare professionals and provides empirical findings that might direct future studies in similar domains.