Double-Loop Learning
9 months ago
- #organizational learning
- #innovation
- #decision-making
- Double-loop learning was introduced by Chris Argyris in the 1970s.
- It involves modifying goals or decision-making rules based on experience, questioning underlying assumptions, goals, and norms.
- Contrasted with single-loop learning, which corrects errors without questioning underlying rules.
- Double-loop learning is useful for organizational learning, driving creativity and innovation.
- Example: A thermostat adjusting temperature (single-loop) vs. questioning the set temperature (double-loop).
- Organizations may resist double-loop learning due to fear of change, failure, or overemphasis on control.
- Historical example: Western Approaches Tactical Unit (WATU) used double-loop learning to update anti-submarine tactics during WW2.