Promoting Learning in Transnational Networks

Abstract

The participation in INTERREG and other European cooperation programs for regional development is usually seen as beneficial, both for the participants and the organizations involved. The diversity of actors with their different professional, institutional and cultural backgrounds is a resource and added- value for collaborative planning, but it can also increase complexity and impede communication. As the experience from INTERREG shows, the benefits of cooperation remain mainly with the individuals directly involved and are often not adequately transferred to the participants' home organizations. However, the generalization of case study knowledge can support mutual learning and the employment of concepts drawn from organizational learning literature can improve the results of transfers. The paper discusses how learning in transnational project groups takes place and how it can be supported. Taking into account recent discussions about outcomes and benefits of INTERREG projects and the setting up of programs for the Structural Funds 2007–2013, the paper also considers how transnational added-value can be enhanced.