From theory to praxis: conceptualizing communities of practice for social workers in healthcare settings

Grounded in participatory action research (PAR), this interpretative description study advanced social work knowledge surrounding Communities of Practice (CoPs). Central areas covered: 1) examining the CoPs phenomenon via existing understandings around it; 2) elucidating an understanding of CoPs within the healthcare practice context of rural/remote areas of Canada; and 3) understanding the lived experience of CoPs for participants. A sample of 24 social workers (n = 24) participated in one of 5 focus groups. Findings highlighted themes important for social workers in honoring their commitment to lifelong learning. Results helped define, contextualize, and consider existing theories and definitions of CoPs, as they apply to healthcare environments.