The week one reading on Chris Argyris’ theories is all about how people learn, and the processes they use to do this both individually and in an organisation environment.

As I began reading, I suddenly came across all these words that I could not recall the meanings of – theories of action, reflection in action, double-loop learning, and models of learning. They meant nothing to me; however, as I read on, they began to make more sense.

The article begins by describing Argyris’ suggestion that there are two theories of action that refer to how people act in various situations – theory-in-use and espoused theory. Theory-in-use is the theory that defines what we would do in a given situation, whereas espoused theory is the language we would use to describe our actions to someone else.

The article then focused on the practice of learning.

“For Argyris and Schön, learning  involves the detection and correction of error.”

In order to correct these errors, there are two methods that can be used – single-loop and double-loop learning.

Single-loop learning is when entities seek to correct an error by putting a certain system or plan into place, so that the desired goal or objective can be achieved. It’s like the main plan or end product does not change, but they look for other ways to get the job done whilst working within the existing frameworks.

Double-loop learning, on the other hand, occurs when an organization corrects an error by questioning the core frameworks that are in place. They are willing to modify the existing boundaries, and rethink current plans and rules if there are better options to replace them.

Argyris seemed to believe that the double-loop learning method would be a more beneficial learning tool to an organization than the single-loop alternative. It would quite possibly involve more politics than the single-loop, but I can now see and agree with Argyris’ opinion on the matter:

“Double-­loop  learning  is  necessary  if practitioners  and  organizations  are  to  make  informed decisions  in  rapidly  changing  and  often  uncertain contexts.”

The holidays are over once again, and uni has begun for 2014. We kicked off the Networked Media subject on Monday afternoon with the one hour class and two hour workshop combined into one session.

The first two hours were spent learning about the course, and we began by focusing our attention on the course structure and desired outcomes. This was important because we were made aware of how the course would run.

We also looked over the assessments and what is involved in each of them. This was a valuable time because it allowed me to begin planning out the six-week semester, and helped me to start thinking and planning out the study time into the weeks ahead.

After the 15-minute break, we spent the next hour opening up our blogs and learning how to use them. This included tasks such as logging into my account, activating the spam filter, becoming familiar with the layout, and how to post blogs.

Overall, I found it quite an informative class. I was a bit worried to find out all the work that is involved in the course; however, the further we got into class, the more comfortable I got with the course requirements.

The intensive six-week course may be difficult at times, but with the right approach I think it will be alright. I feel that with good planning, the blogs and other tasks can all be completed in good time.