This report (KIT Working Paper I1, 2008, 65 p.) covers a research study of
Dgroups which took place from September 2006 to July 2007. Dgroups is a number of things at the same time. It is:
- a web-based technical platform which supports and provides for the creation and use of discrete e-mail based discussion lists and web workspaces that are used to support knowledge networking by people and institutions working in development
- the plural name for these online networks, individually known as a dgroup
- partnership of development organizations who share a commitment to collaboration in development and who are developing a common vision of the need for such a platform and such online groups
The study examines whether and how dgroups can facilitate:
- the spread of information and knowledge among the actors (individual and institutional) working in the thematic areas of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs)
- learning processes (individual, social, and organizational learning) in the diverse institutions working in areas related to the MDGs
- the bridging of the multitude of ‘knowledge divides’ in development between the North and South, and South-South; between different sorts of institutions (multilateral, bilateral, NGOs, universities, ministries) and professional groups (practitioners, researchers and policymakers); and in terms of language
