Knowledge diffusion evolution mechanism in scientific innovation networks

Science Research Management ›› 2015, Vol. 36 ›› Issue (7) : 19-27.

Liu Xuan¹, Li Jia¹, Chen Zhigao¹, Zhang Pengzhu², Fan Jing³

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Abstract

From the social capital perspective, knowledge diffusion in the innovation network is essentially social exchange among inventors. Individuals in scientific networks have a choice in selecting knowledge that is recombined to solve problems or produce new innovations, relying on their interpersonal networks. And this selecting process is influenced by the status of scientists. This research used four social network analysis methods (degree centrality, Bonacich Power, structural holes and betweenness centrality), investigated different knowledge diffusion characteristics (knowledge diversity, random diffusion and parallel duplication) behind those SNA methods, and proposed knowledge diffusion hypothesis in scientific networks. Using CSSCI data span from the years of 1998-2011 in the knowledge management field in China, we examined the temporal relationship between individual status and knowledge diffusion using the COX Proportional Hazards Models. The results showed that individuals occupying boundary spanning positions and having more collaborators played the most important roles in the knowledge diffusion process in this field. And the primary knowledge diffusion in this field was achieved by parallel duplication through team collaboration, and recombination of diversity of knowledge from different scopes or teams.

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scientific network / knowledge diffusion / survival analysis / cox model / structural holes efficiency

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Liu Xuan, Li Jia, Chen Zhigao, Zhang Pengzhu, Fan Jing. Knowledge diffusion evolution mechanism in scientific innovation networks[J]. Science Research Management. 2015, 36(7): 19-27

References

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