Cultivating Recognition

Abstract

The E-learning provision in East Africa including Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda is rapid gaining its way. E-learning providers are all groups tasked with e-learning activities including design, delivery, implementation and others. The e-learning providers are surrounded by issues and challenges (main concerns). The purposed of this study was to identify and examine the main concern amongst e-learning providers in East Africa (Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda). In this study the Classic Grounded Theory Research Methodology was used in order to identify the main concern of e-learning providers. In the course of repeated encounters with e-learning providers, this study found the concept of Cultivating Recognition to emerge as the main concern or core variable amongst these e-learning providers. The core variable within the Classic Grounded Theory research methodology is the main entity that accounts for most of the variation in the data. The core variable of the theory, the basic social psychological process of Cultivating Recognition is characterized by Legitimizing and Credentializing. The process of legitimizing involves convincing the e-learning stakeholders that the e-learning programs and projects will be delivered in a timely, valid and sustainable manner. Legitimizing process is achieved through Collaborating (reciprocal and asymmetric), Referral Networking and Strategic alliancing. Credentializing aims to enhance the stakeholders' belief in the e-learning providers' competence prior to the provision of the e-learning programs and projects. While Credentializing is achieved through Endorsementizing, Result Orienting and Prioritizing Duties, Result Orienting itself is achieved through Visualizing, Professionalizing, Focalizing and Role Delineating. This study will help e-learning providers and other groups to cultivate recognition and pave a way for their success in implementation of e-learning.