The Relationship between Knowledge Management and Organizational Learning within Middle and Senior Managers of Iranian Public Organizations

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between knowledge management and organizational learning. The sample for the study is consisted of 270 middle and senior managers from the 28 public organizations in Iran. The study utilized both quantitative data (questionnaire) and qualitative data (interview). Amah (2013) KM questionnaires and Watkins and Marsiek (2003) organizational learning were used. The reliability of the questionnaires in Iran renew determined. The pearson rank correlation coefficient and Multiple Regression Model using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20 were utilized for the analysis of data. Our finding revealed a positive and significant relationship between knowledge management and organizational learning. Specifically, knowledge acquisition, knowledge storage, knowledge sharing and knowledge utilization were revealed to have a positive and significant influence on organizational learning. Based on this finding, it was concluded that knowledge management enhances organizational learning. It is recommended that organizations should continue to strengthen their knowledge management practices especially knowledge acquisition, knowledge storage, knowledge sharing and knowledge utilization in their everyday activities as this is a sure guarantee for their learning.

Keywords: Knowledge Management, Organizational learning, Knowledge Acquisition, Knowledge Storage, Knowledge Sharing, Knowledge utilization.