Knowledge management in two universities before and during the COVID-19 effect in Peru

Area of Science:

• Higher Education
• Knowledge Management
• Innovation Studies

Background:

• Knowledge management (KM) evaluation is critical for Peruvian universities, impacting teaching, research, and national competitiveness.
• Innovation is vital for economic well-being, especially amidst COVID-19 restrictions.
• Digital transformation in education presents both efficiencies and challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess knowledge management (KM) capability in two private Peruvian universities.
• To develop and apply a model for KM assessment to inform policy development.
• To analyze university performance and challenges related to KM before and during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Main Methods:

• Utilized the Intellectus Model, Mejia model, and Knowledge Management Capability Assessment (KMCA) model.
• Conducted a case study in Lima involving two private universities (271 teachers, 5928 students).
• Assessed KM capabilities before and during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Main Results:

• Digital transformation and virtual instruction policies improved cost efficiencies.
• University performance in KM faced significant challenges during COVID-19.
• Drawbacks were identified in innovation, research, and industry-academia connections.

Conclusions:

• KM assessment provides a basis for efficient KM policies in Peruvian universities.
• The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the need for a new perspective on innovation within KM schemes.
• The developed model can be applied for KM assessment across Peruvian universities.