A network perspective to niche-regime interactions and learning at the regime level

This study proposes an analytical approach to niche-regime-interactive learning, taking an inter-organisational-network-learning perspective. This approach is illustrated empirically with a network-learning episode in which several actors engage with each other for the marketing of local products in supermarkets. Its novelty is two-fold: 1) it integrates the notion of learner levels into the MLP, differentiating between learning-in and -by regime; 2) it proposes a different understanding of learning loops than usually found in ST studies, by considering them as encompassing both processes and outcomes. The paper makes both theoretical and empirical contributions: 1) it helps to elaborate multi-stakeholder learning; 2) it enables capturing learning dynamics within and between sub-system and system levels; 3) it helps to elucidate knowledge-power issues learning is subjected to; 4) it elucidates the value of this network perspective empirically, illustrating its descriptive and explanatory power in helping to further the knowledge on learning at the regime level.