Single, Double, & Triple-loop Learning Flashcards
(29 cards)
Who developed the concepts of single-loop and double-loop learning?
Chris Argyris.
When were the concepts of single-loop and double-loop learning introduced?
In the 1970s and 1980s, especially through Argyris’ collaboration with Donald Schön.
What field of study are these learning concepts most associated with?
Organisational learning and behavioural science.
What is single-loop learning?
A process where errors are corrected without questioning underlying assumptions or values.
What is an example of single-loop learning?
A manager shortens deadlines to fix delays without examining the root cause of missed deadlines.
What is double-loop learning?
A deeper process where individuals or organisations question and change their underlying assumptions and values.
What is an example of double-loop learning?
A manager investigates whether unrealistic deadlines or poor workload balance are causing missed deadlines.
What is the main difference between single- and double-loop learning?
Single-loop changes actions; double-loop changes thinking.
Which type of learning leads to deeper and more sustainable change?
Double-loop learning.
In single-loop learning, what remains unchanged?
Underlying values, goals, or policies.
In double-loop learning, what gets questioned?
The assumptions and values behind goals and actions.
What metaphor is commonly used to describe single-loop learning?
A thermostat adjusting temperature to a fixed setting.
What metaphor is used for double-loop learning?
Questioning whether the temperature setting itself is appropriate.
What is triple-loop learning?
Learning that questions and transforms how we learn, including our values, norms, and learning systems.
How does triple-loop learning differ from double-loop learning?
Triple-loop learning reflects on how we decide what is right, not just whether our assumptions are right.
What is the core question of triple-loop learning?
“How do we decide what is right?”
What does triple-loop learning involve?
Reflecting on learning systems, cultural norms, identity, and governing values.
What is the focus of triple-loop learning?
Meta-learning — learning about learning.
When is triple-loop learning most likely to occur?
During deep transformation, crises, or intentional culture change.
What is an example of triple-loop learning?
An organisation rethinks its entire approach to accountability, moving from blame to learning culture.
In what fields is triple-loop learning often applied?
Organisational development, leadership, systems thinking, adaptive learning.
Who expanded the concept of triple-loop learning beyond Argyris’ original work?
Later scholars such as Bob Garratt and William Torbert.
What is the triple-loop learning analogy for a thermostat?
Asking why we have a thermostat and how we define “comfort” in the first place.
In the analogy for single-loop learning, what do people do with the thermostat?
They adjust the thermostat to maintain the preset temperature (e.g. 22°C) without questioning the setting.
