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Reinterpreting the learning organisation

Deb Stewart (Deb Stewart is a Lecturer in the School of Management, Victoria University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.)

The Learning Organization

ISSN: 0969-6474

Article publication date: 1 October 2001

9862

Abstract

Examines the theoretical and practical development of the concept of the learning organisation (LO). Some theorists have used the term LO interchangeably with organisational learning, while others have drawn distinctions between the two. Provides a brief review of the current LO literature in the context of learning and organisational learning, and the theoretical tensions existing between these concepts. Treats the LO as a metaphor in order to explore the possibilities for its re‐interpretation. Establishes the centrality of narrative to all human endeavours and that every organisational aspect is anchored in narratives. Holistically re‐interprets the LO using narrative theory. Suggests the LO needs to be re‐interpreted in the context of power relations and Bourdieu’s social theory. Claims that the use of metaphor, narrative and social theory enhance our thinking about the LO conceptually and will open up practical possibilities for practitioners and consultants.

Keywords

Citation

Stewart, D. (2001), "Reinterpreting the learning organisation", The Learning Organization, Vol. 8 No. 4, pp. 141-152. https://doi.org/10.1108/EUM0000000005607

Publisher

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MCB UP Ltd

Copyright © 2001, MCB UP Limited

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