Thinking about thinking: learning at a different level

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore an under‐recognized issue in learning in organizations. Managers/leaders are exhorted to think effectively but little work seems to be done on how to think about the right things.

Design/methodology/approach

This article is based on work done in a variety of organizations as well as published sources.

Findings

Managers/leaders appear to have problems often in thinking about the right things. For instance organizations fail because leaders do not think strategically. However little useful material is available to assist leaders to think effectively.

Practical implications

The article has real practical implications for leaders/managers and learning and development professionals, as it is unique in exposing a real problem that is glossed over in much management writing. The article suggests some directions for increasing the thinking capability of managers/leaders.

Originality/value

The article will be of value to managers and learning specialists as it raises important issues about the need to focus on this under‐explored problem.

Citation

Cunningham, I. (2008), "Thinking about thinking: learning at a different level", Development and Learning in Organizations, Vol. 22 No. 2, pp. 5-7. https://doi.org/10.1108/14777280810850651