Development of a model for Project-Based Learning Organization: Grounded Theory Approach

Studies in the field of learning and organization have changed through formation of the concept of a learning organization. As a result various models have been developed and customized for project based organizations. Still, they have not yet been customized for Project Based Organizations, as a very important category of organizations with growing importance. The special requirements of project based organizations in learning demands the development of a special model for project based learning organizations (PBLOs). This is routed in the temporary nature of projects. This study aims to develop a paradigmatic model for PBLOs based on case studies in two project based organizations of oil and gas industries. The strategy of the study is structured grounded theory and the data are acquired from interviewing 20 participants in the field of project and knowledge management. As a result of the interviews and by analysis and coding of 715 obtained phrases, 25 basic concepts were identified which have been placed in the paradigmatic model. Since a qualitative approach towards organizational learning has been very limited up till now, and in addition no studies have yet addressed PBLOs in particular, this work could be treated as a pioneering study in the field.