Modes of organizational learning : indications from an empirical study

Abstract

The paper presents design and results of an empirical study on organizational learning (OL). OL is conceptualized as a communication based process, changing organizationally shared reality constructions. A model is developed, which allows the description of organizations as learning systems. It serves as a frame for collecting and structuring data on reality constructions and communication relations. Gathered by interviews in two municipal administrations, data is further processed into cognitive maps (reality constructions) and networks (communication relations). Their analysis leads to propositions about the nature of OL processes. It is demonstrated that changes of organizationally shared reality constructions (OL) originate in self-organizing communication networks. Furthermore, a structural and a strategic organizational learning mode are distinguished. They differ with respect to the information which is processed in the networks, the outcome they produce and the logic they follow.