What is double loop learning Argyris?
Christopher Pierce
Updated on February 27, 2026
Double-loop learning is an educational concept and process that involves teaching people to think more deeply about their own assumptions and beliefs. It was created by Chris Argyris, a leading organizational trainer, in the mid-1980’s, and developed over the next decade into an effective tool.
What is an example of double loop learning?
Examples of double-loop learning When an employee (let’s call her Marsha) questions the method, her manager tells her that this the way they’ve always done it, and no one has complained so far. Meanwhile, competitors are trying different approaches to evolve with the times.
What is the difference between single loop and double loop learning theory given by Argyris and Schon?
Single-loop learning is like a thermostat that learns when it is too hot or too cold and turns the heat on or off. Double-loop learning occurs when error is detected and corrected in ways that involve the modification of an organization’s underlying norms, policies and objectives.”
What does empowerment mean to Chris Argyris?
To understand why it was not working, Argyris set empowerment in the context of commitment, an individual’s commitment to his or her place of work. Argyris argued that the problem with many corporate programmes designed to encourage empowerment was that they created more external than internal commitment.
What is deutero learning?
The term deutero-learning describes the context in which (proto-)learning processes occur. You “learn” not only what you are supposed to learn (in a common sense understanding); so, for example, riding a bike, learning a language, or repairing a car – these processes are all proto-learning.
What is the contribution of Chris Argyris?
Chris Argyris’ early research explored the impact of formal organizational structures, control systems, and management on individuals (and how they responded and adapted to them). This research resulted in the books Personality and Organization (1957) and Integrating the Individual and the Organization (1964).
What is single and double loop learning?
Single Loop Learning is about making adjustments to correct a mistake or a problem. Double Loop Learning is identifying and understanding causality and then taking action to fix the problem.
What are the 3 main elements of organization according to Barnard?
Barnard has identified three types of functions which an executive performs in a formal organisation. maintenance or organizational communication through formal interactions. the securing of essential services from individuals to achieve organizational purpose. the formulation and definition of organizational purpose.
What is Argyris’ double loop theory?
Argyris (1976) proposes double loop learning theory which pertains to learning to change underlying values and assumptions. The focus of the theory is on solving problems that are complex and ill-structured and which change as problem-solving advances.
What can we learn from Chris Argyris?
Chris Argyris has made a significant contribution to the development of our appreciation of organizational learning, and, almost in passing, deepened our understanding of experiential learning.
Why do organizations resist double-loop learning?
Organizational learning in such cases occurs when the diagnosis and intervention produce changes in the underlying policies, assumptions, and goals. According to Chris Argyris, however, many organizations resist double-loop learning due to a number of variables such as resistance to change, fear of failure, and overemphasis on control.
What is the Argyris methodology?
It was created by Chris Argyris, a leading organizational trainer, in the mid-1980’s, and developed over the next decade into an effective tool. Double-loop learning is different than single-loop learning which involves changing methods and improving efficiency to obtain established objectives (i.e., “doing things right”).