Contrasting dynamics of organizational learning : a process theory perspective

In this paper we analyze the process characteristics of organizational learning. A wide variety of process models of organizational learning have been proposed in the literature, but these models have not been systematically investigated. In this paper we use Van de Ven and Poole's (1995) taxonomy of process types to compare the extant conceptualizations of organizational learning. We show that the four types of process models - life cycle, evolution, teleology and dialectics - can also be found among prominent models of learning. In order to analyze the relationships between these different types of learning processes, we present observations from two field studies. These observations illustrate the existence of multiple processes, their coexistence and their complementarity in producing learning outcomes. But the observations also show that the coexistence of multiple process types can lead to tensions and conflicts that have to be dealt with by organization members. We conclude that the competing, complementary and conflicting relationships between process types underscores the importance of a process theory perspective on organizational learning and the necessity to study process models simultaneously and interactively.