How to develop a consortium: conversation and collaboration

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to describe the conversations and collaborative problem-solving strategies initiated by a small group of faculty working collegially across five University of Wisconsin–Whitewater (UW) campuses to address the state shortage of school librarians.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a case study of the development of the consortium; its curriculum design and redesign and course development based on Conversation Theory, a set of common principles; and new directions in the library field.

Findings

This consortium developed a virtual department structure and a curriculum that has addressed the needs of the state and overcome bureaucratic hurdles.

Originality/value

The structure of the consortium; the use of the Conversation Theory to guide its development, curriculum and course design; and solutions to problems that arose could benefit other collaborative efforts.

Citation

Schroeder, E.E. and Zarinnia, E.A. (2016), "How to develop a consortium: conversation and collaboration", On the Horizon, Vol. 24 No. 3, pp. 235-245. https://doi.org/10.1108/OTH-04-2016-0014