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Argyris Double-Loop Learning

Self-Assess
International
v1978
12 domains
27 controls

Chris Argyris's theory of organizational learning distinguishing between single-loop learning (correcting errors within existing frameworks) and double-loop learning (questioning and modifying underlying assumptions, values, and policies). Published in 'Organizational Learning' (1978, with Donald Schon) and 'On Organizational Learning' (1999).

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Framework Domains (12)

Behavioural Integrity

3 controls
Controls in the Behavioural Integrity domain of Argyris Double-Loop Learning — 3 controls
CodeTitle
ADL-03Espoused Theory vs Theory-in-Use Reconciliation
ADL-04Model I Defensive Routines Identification
ADL-05Model II Practice Adoption

Continuous Improvement

1 controls
Controls in the Continuous Improvement domain of Argyris Double-Loop Learning — 1 controls
CodeTitle
ADL-12Feedback Loop Closure

Culture

1 controls
Controls in the Culture domain of Argyris Double-Loop Learning — 1 controls
CodeTitle
ADL-14Learning Climate Measurement

Defensive Routines and Learning

5 controls

Organizational defensive routines that prevent learning, and practices for overcoming them.

Controls in the Defensive Routines and Learning domain of Argyris Double-Loop Learning — 5 controls
CodeTitle
ARGYRIS-BAIBalancing Advocacy with Inquiry - stating views while genuinely inviting challenge and alternative perspectives
ARGYRIS-DROrganizational Defensive Routines - actions preventing embarrassment or threat that also prevent learning
ARGYRIS-LADLadder of Inference - awareness of how people move from data to conclusions, often skipping steps
ARGYRIS-LHCLeft-Hand Column Exercise - surfacing what people think but do not say to reveal gaps between espoused and actual
ARGYRIS-PICProductive Inquiry and Conversation - creating conditions for honest dialogue without defensiveness

Governance

1 controls
Controls in the Governance domain of Argyris Double-Loop Learning — 1 controls
CodeTitle
ADL-15Board-Level Double-Loop Review

Intervention

1 controls
Controls in the Intervention domain of Argyris Double-Loop Learning — 1 controls
CodeTitle
ADL-11Action Science Intervention Cycle

Leadership Capability

2 controls
Controls in the Leadership Capability domain of Argyris Double-Loop Learning — 2 controls
CodeTitle
ADL-09Skilled Incompetence Detection
ADL-13Leadership Reasoning Audit

Learning Loops

3 controls

The fundamental distinction between levels of organizational learning, from simple error correction to deep assumption questioning.

Controls in the Learning Loops domain of Argyris Double-Loop Learning — 3 controls
CodeTitle
ARGYRIS-DLDouble-Loop Learning - questioning and modifying underlying assumptions, values, and policies
ARGYRIS-SLSingle-Loop Learning - correcting errors within existing governing variables without questioning assumptions
ARGYRIS-TLTriple-Loop Learning - learning about how we learn, transforming the learning system itself

Learning Maturity

2 controls
Controls in the Learning Maturity domain of Argyris Double-Loop Learning — 2 controls
CodeTitle
ADL-01Single-Loop Learning Capability
ADL-02Double-Loop Learning Trigger Criteria

Reasoning Quality

3 controls
Controls in the Reasoning Quality domain of Argyris Double-Loop Learning — 3 controls
CodeTitle
ADL-06Ladder of Inference Discipline
ADL-07Left-Hand Column Reflection Exercise
ADL-08Productive Reasoning Standards

Systemic Diagnosis

1 controls
Controls in the Systemic Diagnosis domain of Argyris Double-Loop Learning — 1 controls
CodeTitle
ADL-10Organizational Defensive Routine Mapping

Theories of Action

4 controls

The distinction between what people say drives their behavior (espoused theory) and what actually drives it (theory-in-use).

Controls in the Theories of Action domain of Argyris Double-Loop Learning — 4 controls
CodeTitle
ARGYRIS-ETEspoused Theory - the theory of action people claim to follow, their stated values and beliefs
ARGYRIS-M1Model I Behavior - unilateral control, win-lose framing, suppression of negative feelings, defensiveness
ARGYRIS-M2Model II Behavior - valid information, free and informed choice, internal commitment, bilateral control
ARGYRIS-TUTheory-in-Use - the theory of action actually governing behavior, often unconscious and different from espoused

Your Compliance Coverage

If you comply with Argyris Double-Loop Learning, you already cover:

LEADS in a Caring Environment

30%

8 controls mapped

Compare →

The Leadership Challenge (Kouzes & Posner)

22%

6 controls mapped

Compare →

OECD/G20 Principles of Corporate Governance

22%

6 controls mapped

Compare →

+ 19 more: NHS Healthcare Leadership Model (22%), ISO 37000:2021 (22%)

See all 22 mapped frameworks ↓

Maps to 22 other frameworks

27 total controls
LEADS in a Caring Environment
8 source controls mapped|7 target controls covered
30%
The Leadership Challenge (Kouzes & Posner)
6 source controls mapped|5 target controls covered
22%
OECD/G20 Principles of Corporate Governance
6 source controls mapped|6 target controls covered
22%
NHS Healthcare Leadership Model
6 source controls mapped|6 target controls covered
22%
ISO 37000:2021
6 source controls mapped|5 target controls covered
22%
Goleman Emotional Intelligence Leadership Framework
6 source controls mapped|6 target controls covered
22%
ICN Leadership for Change Programme
5 source controls mapped|5 target controls covered
19%
COSO Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013)
5 source controls mapped|4 target controls covered
19%
Senge Fifth Discipline - Learning Organization
5 source controls mapped|4 target controls covered
19%
Heifetz Adaptive Leadership Framework
5 source controls mapped|5 target controls covered
19%
ILO Nursing Personnel Convention C149 (1977)
4 source controls mapped|4 target controls covered
15%
Maslach Burnout Prevention Model
4 source controls mapped|4 target controls covered
15%
Kolb Experiential Learning Cycle
3 source controls mapped|3 target controls covered
11%
WHO Global Competency Model
3 source controls mapped|3 target controls covered
11%
Full Range Leadership Model (Bass & Avolio)
3 source controls mapped|2 target controls covered
11%
SSAE 18 SOC 1 - Report on Controls at a Service Organisation (ICFR)
3 source controls mapped|2 target controls covered
11%
VUCA Leadership Framework
2 source controls mapped|2 target controls covered
7%
Kotter 8-Step Change Model
2 source controls mapped|2 target controls covered
7%
Hersey & Blanchard Situational Leadership Model
2 source controls mapped|2 target controls covered
7%
ASEAN Data Management Framework
1 source controls mapped|1 target controls covered
4%
Voluntary Principles on Security and Human Rights (VPs)
1 source controls mapped|1 target controls covered
4%
US OFAC Sanctions Compliance Framework
1 source controls mapped|1 target controls covered
4%
Compare Argyris Double-Loop Learning with LEADS in a Caring Environment

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Argyris Double-Loop Learning?

Argyris Double-Loop Learning is a compliance framework from International with 12 domains and 27 controls. Chris Argyris's theory of organizational learning distinguishing between single-loop learning (correcting errors within existing frameworks) and double-loop learning (questioning and modifying underlying assumptions, values, and policies). Published in 'Organizational Learning' (1978, with Donald Schon) and 'On Organizational Learning' (1999). It is used by organisations to establish and maintain compliance with industry standards and regulatory requirements.

How many controls does Argyris Double-Loop Learning have?

Argyris Double-Loop Learning has 27 controls organised across 12 domains. The largest domains are Defensive Routines and Learning (5 controls), Theories of Action (4 controls), Behavioural Integrity (3 controls). Each control defines specific requirements that organisations must implement to achieve compliance.

What frameworks does Argyris Double-Loop Learning map to?

Argyris Double-Loop Learning maps to 22 other compliance frameworks. The top mapping partners are LEADS in a Caring Environment (30% coverage), The Leadership Challenge (Kouzes & Posner) (22% coverage), OECD/G20 Principles of Corporate Governance (22% coverage). Use our comparison tool to explore control-level mappings between frameworks.

How do I get started with Argyris Double-Loop Learning compliance?

Start your Argyris Double-Loop Learning compliance journey by running a self-assessment on our platform to identify your current compliance posture. Our AI advisory can answer specific questions about Argyris Double-Loop Learning requirements, and cross-framework mapping helps you leverage existing controls from other frameworks you may already comply with. Create a free account to access all 27 controls and track your progress.

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