Single and Double-Loop Learning – Flashcards

Single and double-loop learning was developed organizational learning (OL). OL helps detect and correct errors that occur in organizations, to improve the problem that has been identified.

Single-loop learning is a learning process that occurs within organizations. This type of learning process refers to people, organizations, or groups modifying their actions by detecting and correcting a specific and repetitive error in a given situation. The correction of the error is just a temporary fix, and does not result in change to the operating norms.

Double-loop learning is a learning process that occurs within organizations. This type of learning process refers to people, organizations, or groups modifying their actions by detecting, correcting, and changing the error in a given situation. The correction changes the operating norms.

A thermostat that automatically turns on the heat if the temperature of the room gets below the set room temperature. Or turns off the heat if the temperature of the room gets above the set room temperature. Does not question why it does this.

A thermostat that could ask itself "Why I am set to 21 degrees celsius?", and question or explore whether it should be changed to a temperature that is better to achieve the specific goal (heating the room).

Chris Argryis and Donald Schon

1978

Individuals have theories in their brain that help form the actions they perform. Can either be verbally to express their actions to others or nonverbally to keep the actions to themselves. Single and double-loop learning was formed from theory of action.

Process that organizations go through to change and alter the operating norms by identifying problems and using problem solving techniques. Single- loop, double-loop, and organizational learning are a major part of this process.

Transformational learning involves questioning the operating norms and learning how to learn by reflecting on how we learnt the specific task in the beginning.

Single-loop learning is created in systems that are characterized by instrumental rationality. Instrumental rationality is when organizations, groups, or people do not reflect or critically question and think about their behaviour or action(s). Rather they simply just try and reach the end goal in the simplest way.

Double-loop learning is created in systems that are characterized by substantial rationality. Substantial rationality is when organizations, groups, or people question the operating norms. It makes the organization detect and correct errors, which make a change in the underlying rules of the organization.