THE EXERCISE

Double-Loop Learning and The Five Whys (or at least three…)

Double-loop learning involves questioning the role of framing and learning systems underlying an organization’s goals and values, whereas single-loop learning looks at immediately observable processes and structures. At a practical level, Senge proposes the five “whys” as a useful tool for steering away from blaming first order causes or individuals, and reaching an deeper level of understanding of the factors underlying the issue. When the question “why is this happening? Is asked in relation to a particular problem, rather than taking the first answer(s) as the cause(s) of the problem, one should ask the question “why?” again in relation to each response. As the levels of probing get deeper the tendency is to move from specific technical aspects towards broader questioning of values, incentives or policies.

THE STEPS
(The participants will contribute to step a):

a. Identify an actual project or program outcome that did not achieve what had been intended or planned. Discuss with colleagues involved in project and provide at least 3 ever-deepening why answers why this had happened and try to move from initial technical and process explanations towards deeper reasons related to your organization’s values and policies. List initial and subsequent responses to these WHY questions.

(Steps b and c will be worked by Lucho):
b. How would you address deeper-lying issues that become visible through this process?
c. What can your organization do to engage more often in double-loop learning?


Reference:

Pasteur, K. (2004)
Learning for Development: A literature review. (PAGE 15)
Lessons for Change in Policy and Organizations No 6.
Brighton: Institute of Development Studies.