CAREER DEVELOPMENT IN A LEARNING ORGANIZATION

(Darren Dugan) #1

organic. In mechanistic approach, according to Jones exploitative learning could take
place in due course because the main focus of this approach is the operating aspect of the
organization. Implementation of this approach results in improvement in the working
pattern of the group as the struggle towards efficient task performance continues. Organic
structure facilitates explorative learning.
Using Senge concept of building shared vision among the organization’s staff,
Jones comments that practice of this concept will direct all the other learning and
activities of the staff towards a single focal point i.e. their common goal.
In this type of the organizational learning the individual’s and organizational
norms and values are shared and therefore, the motive of learning, on both the sides, is
the same. Creating commonality of norms and values between the individuals and the
organization amplify the impact of learning many fold causing deep rooted adaptation in
the thinking and behavior of the individuals. According to Jones:


At the heart of this vision is likely to be the set of terminal and
instrumental values and norms that guide behavior in a particular setting
and that affect the way people interact with individuals and groups
outside an organization, that is, organizational culture. Thus yet
another important aspect of organizational culture is its ability to
promote or inhibit organizational learning and change. (2005: p: 405)

Creating adaptive culture is more important to survive in the ever changing
business environment. While discussing the importance of adaptive culture, Jones says
that “Organizations with adaptive cultures are more likely to survive in a
changing environment and, indeed, should have higher performance than organiza-
tions with inert cultures—exactly what Kotter and Heskett found.” (2005).



  1. Inter-Organizational
    The organization and structure and culture must not limit the sphere of learning. The
    process should permeate the boundaries of the organization, reaching out to other
    organization. Organization with Organic and adaptive culture easily make linkages with

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