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Formal entrepreneurial networks as communities of practice: a longitudinal case study

Author

Listed:
  • Vincent Lefebvre

    (Audencia Recherche - Audencia Business School)

  • Miruna Radu Lefebvre

    (Audencia Recherche - Audencia Business School)

  • Eric Pierre Simon

    (ISC Paris - Institut Supérieur du Commerce de Paris)

Abstract

This article argues that entrepreneurial learning is genuinely connected to entrepreneurial networking activities, within a co-evolving dynamics. We take a longitudinal network approach to study the combined development of network dynamics and learning in a French formal entrepreneurial network over a period of four years (2005-2009). Our aim is to extend our knowledge of entrepreneurial learning emphasised both as a process and an outcome of social interaction, by focussing on the interplay between network evolution and the changing learning needs of participants over time. Building on a situated social perspective of entrepreneurial learning, we demonstrate that network learning processes and outcomes are contingent on the progressive network transformation from a social network to a community of practice.

Suggested Citation

  • Vincent Lefebvre & Miruna Radu Lefebvre & Eric Pierre Simon, 2015. "Formal entrepreneurial networks as communities of practice: a longitudinal case study," Post-Print hal-01217308, HAL.
    • Handle: RePEc:hal:journl:hal-01217308
    DOI: 10.1080/08985626.2015.1070539
    Note: View the original document on HAL open archive server: https://audencia.hal.science/hal-01217308
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

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    7. Sophie Alkhaled, 2021. "Women's entrepreneurship in Saudi Arabia: Feminist solidarity and political activism in disguise?," Gender, Work and Organization, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 28(3), pages 950-972, May.

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    Keywords

    Formal entrepreneurial network; Learning; Community of practice;
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