Jeffery David Whippo, a Ph.D. in Educational Psychology with a Doctorate in Business Administration says that according to Chris Argyris and Donald Schon, who originated the terms, “single-loop learning” refers to correcting an action to solve or avoid an error, while “double-loop learning” is correcting the underlying causes behind the problem. Jeff believes that organizational learning is all about detecting and correcting error.

According to Jeff Whippo, double-loop learning is more difficult than single-loop learning as it requires three major skills, which are -

1. Self-awareness to identify what is often unconscious or habitual
2. Honesty to admit mistakes and discuss with colleagues to discover and validate causes behind those mistakes
3. Taking responsibility to act appropriately on what is learned.

Jeff says that according to Argyris, “today, facing competitive pressures an earlier generation could hardly have imagined…leaders and subordinates alike…must all begin struggling with a new level of self-awareness, candor, and responsibility” (Argyris, 1994).

About Jeffery David Whippo

Jeffery David Whippo is a professional educator and developer of people, teams, and leaders. He is a well-educated professional who has attended California Coast University, Boston University, California State Polytechnic University, Community College of the Air Force, and Citrus College. He also worked as a Combat Intelligence Specialist for the USAF for almost 4 years. He contributes to a number of charitable causes including The Jimmy Fund, Junior Diabetes, Goodwill, and American Veterans.

Jeffery is an avid learner who loves to study ancient history and psychology. He is also a veteran member of the VFW.