The History of Community of Practice

The concept of community of practice (CoP) has its roots in the fields of anthropology and sociology, where it was first used to describe the ways in which people learn through social interaction. Over time, the concept of CoP has evolved and expanded, becoming a popular tool for organizations to promote learning, innovation, and collaboration among their employees.

The term "community of practice" was first used by anthropologist Jean Lave and sociologist Etienne Wenger in 1991, as a way to describe how individuals in traditional societies learned through their daily activities and interactions with others. They observed that individuals in these societies learned through formal education and informal interactions and relationships they formed with others in their community.

In the 1990s, the concept of CoP was introduced to the field of organizational learning and development, where it was used as a way to promote collaboration and knowledge sharing among employees. Organizations saw the benefits of having employees collaborate and share their knowledge and experiences with one another, as it helped to promote innovation and improve overall performance.

In recent years, the concept of CoP has continued to evolve and expand, with many organizations now recognizing the benefits of fostering a culture of continuous learning and collaboration. The rise of technology and the internet has also made it easier for organizations to facilitate the formation of CoPs, through virtual platforms and online communities.

Today, the concept of CoP is widely recognized and used by organizations of all sizes and industries. It has become an important tool for promoting learning, innovation, and collaboration, and for helping employees to develop their skills and knowledge in a specific area of interest or profession.

In conclusion, the concept of community of practice has a rich history, rooted in the fields of anthropology and sociology. Over time, it has evolved and expanded, becoming a valuable tool for organizations looking to promote learning, innovation, and collaboration among their employees.