Knowledge,Context and Learning in the Small Business

JEFF DALLEY HAS BEEN OWNER-MANAGER OF several small businesses and is currently associated with a boutique winery near Christchurch, New Zealand. Bob Hamilton is Professor of Management at the University of Canterbury, Christchurch, New Zealand. The first objective of this paper is to elaborate what is meant by small business 'context' It then seeks to demonstrate how the constructs of 'knowledge', 'context', and 'learning' operate as key determinants of the effectiveness of small business education and training. The supply of education and training to potential business founders and those already running their own businesses is itself a worldwide growth industry. This is happening even though much of what is provided is known to be ineffective and there is evidence that those on the receiving end are resistant to education and training. One criticism of the current situation is that the offerings are essentially supply-determined and lack any appreciation of the special context within which a small business exists. If this context is neglected or, worse, contradicted by the suppliers, then no effective learning will occur. Only disappointment and increased suspicion will result