Developing an Academic Community of Practice (COP) in University of Ghana

Abstract

This study explored the awareness, characteristics, benefits and challenges of the adoption of Community of Practice (CoP) in University of Ghana using some aspects of the grounded theory approach A qualitative design was used for this study.. Twenty-five (25) staff of the College of Education including administrators, lecturers and professors took part in the investigation. An interpretative perspective was therefore adopted to understand the issues from the point of view of the respondents. The awareness of CoP as a concept was not universal. .It is suggested that a sponsored CoP would be ideal for University of Ghana in view of certain anticipated challenges in its implementation. Workshops and seminars ought to be organised to educate management and potential CoP members about the approach.

Key Words: Communities, Practice, University, Ghana, College, Education.