Three debates in organizational learning: what every manager should know

Abstract

Purpose – The present study aims to address three major debates in organizational learning, review past literature and pinpoint practical implications for managers.

Design/methodology/approach – This briefing is prepared by an independent writer who adds their own impartial comments and places the articles in context.

Findings – Though theoretical contributions have enriched “organizational learning” literature for over five decades, there seems to be little consensus among scholars about its definition, methodology and theoretical perspectives. Little did anyone realize that the construct itself would become so encompassing that its merit of being understood gets overshadowed by the multitude of perspectives. For managers, it requires a basic understanding of these three debates to remain open to the organizational learning efforts in their organization.

Originality/value – Based on an extensive literature review, the briefing saves busy executives and researchers hours of reading time by selecting only the very best, most pertinent information and presenting it in a condensed and easy-to-digest format.