Chris Argyris is known for his theories on organizational learning and effectiveness. He coined the term "action science" which examines how people interact within organizations. Argyris developed theories of single-loop and double-loop learning, where single-loop focuses on techniques and double-loop leads to shifts in strategies and framing of consequences. Double-loop learning can be applied to school administration to promote organizational effectiveness through reviewing and changing practices. While the theory focuses on interactions, it can also support technology integration to enhance teaching and learning. However, the distinction between single and double-loop learning is sometimes vague.

1. Chris ArgyrisPresented byKenneth CaesarJHU School of Education

2. Chris Argyris is well known for his theories on organizational change and learning within organizations for organizational effectiveness.

3. Action ScienceArgyris is partially responsible for coining the term “action science” along with Donald Schon. Action science is referred to as a field of inquiry.The basis of action science is “a strategy for increasing the skills and confidence of individuals in groups to create any kind of organization and to foster long term individual and group effectiveness.”Using the basis of action science Argyris developed theories examining how people interact within organizations.

4. Models of OrganizationsArgris along with DonaldSchonis credited for being the first to develop models of organizational change.One of the most popular theories is the use of single looping and double looping.This theory derives from Argyris and Schon belief that learning involves the detection and correction of error.

5. Models of OrganizationsSingle-loop learning is “an alternative response is to question to governing variables themselves, to subject them to critical scrutiny.” Single loop learning is “is present when goals, values, frameworks and to a significant extent, strategies are taken for granted. The emphasis is on techniques and making techniques more efficient.” (Smith 2001)

6. Models of OrganizationDouble-loop learning on the other hand is referred as “such learning that may lead to an alteration in the governing variables and, and thus, a shift in the way in which strategies and consequences are framed.” (Smith 2001)

7. Models of OrganizationBoth single loop and double learning are referred to as theories in use. To further understand these theories, Argyris and Schon further broke than double loop learning into two models, models I and II.

8. Models of OrganizationsModel I involves making inferences about another person’s behavior without checking whether they are valid and advocating one’s own views. (Smith 2001) Main feature of model II is the ability to call upon good quality data and to make inferences. (Smith 2001)

9. Theory application to school based administrationWhen reviewing Argyris theory aspects of the theory can be applied to school based administration. It is evident the beliefs Argyris has on organizational learning is applicable to a school based administration. Argyrisoverall belief is to ensure effectiveness in the organization. The main goal will be for the school leader to determine how they implement the theory in their administration based on their beliefs of the theory. Depending on the style of leadership of the leader this theory will be work for them. For example, double loop learning will be effective within an organization. The first standard of the ISLLC and NETS-A standards refers to the need to have visionary leaders. It is evident that double looping challenges the organization to review the practices of the organization and if necessary make the necessary changes to the organization for organizational effectiveness.

10. Promotion of theory to support teaching and learningSince the focal point of this theory is to examine how people interact within the organization it is hard to relate it to technology. This theory can promote technology to support teaching and learning with the notion of effectiveness. As we are moving into the 21st century technology has a major impact on the educational process therefore, technology leaders in the building need to be able exhibit leadership and come up with complex solutions when moving the agenda forward for technology which should therefore assist in the delivery of teaching and learning.

11. Critique of TheoryOverall the theory that is presented here discusses the most important aspect of organization, which is how people interact in the organization and how their interactions are monitored, controlled, guided and evaluated. Agyris theories can be confusing in some respect. Understanding the difference between single and double looping is vague. It seems in some cases some of the characteristics overlap and it is hard to make a clear distinction between the two of them.