Authors : T.A. Dandadzi, J.L. Thabane, T. Hungwe, M.M. Lekganyane, G.R. Miyambu, S.N. Mathiba, E.L. Sesale, T. Ramarumo, S. Mafike, T.V. Ndobe, K.D. Tshabalala, R.M. Molaba, G. Rakale, O.P. Mokoena and S.M. Seeletse
Abstract: This study displays the extent of possibilities of knowledge sharing in research activities of academics from diverse fields and the conducive conditions for optimizing the benefits. The focus group experiment was conducted in disciplinarity (crossdisciplinarity, interdisciplinarity, multidisciplinarity and transdisciplinarity) information sharing crowdsourcing meeting to determine ways of improving research outputs. The group consisted of academics from computer science and statistics & operations research departments at the Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) in South Africa. Initial data collection consisted of observing the activities of that group and then capturing the salient points. The second data collection was a follow up question guide asking for reflection of the crowdsourcing from the members who participated in the meeting. The findings expressed that synergies were formed from the diverse expertise and experiences. The communication resulted in the enlightenment of members on new learning. Removal of communication barriers enabled sharing of information as well as effective listening during discussions. Most delegates found out that they shared the feature of unfinished researches that were parked which could produce manuscripts for publications. Members also cited the weakness of quick planning which denied delegates enough preparation time and led to the exclusion of some important colleagues from the initial meeting. The recommendations were to have more regular research knowledge sharing discussions on research matters and to revisit backlogged research work as a start for the way forward in enforcing publication strategies.
T.A. Dandadzi, J.L. Thabane, T. Hungwe, M.M. Lekganyane, G.R. Miyambu, S.N. Mathiba, E.L. Sesale, T. Ramarumo, S. Mafike, T.V. Ndobe, K.D. Tshabalala, R.M. Molaba, G. Rakale, O.P. Mokoena and S.M. Seeletse, 2020. Excavating Optimal Potential from Each Academic Through Crowdsourcing Conversation. Journal of Engineering and Applied Sciences, 15: 1098-1105.