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Immunity to transformational learning and change

David J. Bochman (University of Idaho, Boise, Idaho, USA)
and
Michael Kroth (University of Idaho, Boise, Idaho, USA)

The Learning Organization

ISSN: 0969-6474

Article publication date: 25 May 2010

3251

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine and synthesize Argyris and Schön's Theory of Action and Kegan and Lahey's theory of Immunity to Change in order to produce an integrated model.

Design/methodology/approach

Literature discussing Argyris and Schön's Theory of Action (Model I and Model II), single and double‐loop learning, espoused theory and theory‐in‐use; and Kegan and Lahey's theory of Immunity to Change was examined. The two theories were then summarized, analyzed, compared and synthesized into an integrated model.

Findings

Within Kegan and Lahey's model of an immunity system, the Argyris and Schön Model I Unilateral Control Model should be considered a competing commitment. Kegan and Lahey's theory identifies a critical causal element (underlying assumption) not previously identified by the Argyris and Schön Theory of Action, thus opening the potential for expanded effectiveness by practioners of Argyris and Schön's theory.

Originality/value

Little attention has been given in the literature to comparing or integrating these two theories. The synthesis of the two theories opens the possibility of overcoming limitations experienced by practitioners promoting double‐loop learning in organizations.

Keywords

Citation

Bochman, D.J. and Kroth, M. (2010), "Immunity to transformational learning and change", The Learning Organization, Vol. 17 No. 4, pp. 328-342. https://doi.org/10.1108/09696471011043090

Publisher

:

Emerald Group Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2010, Emerald Group Publishing Limited

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