Single-loop-learning is a human-made learning mechanism in which an organization or system detects errors by comparing actual performance against a set of standards or goals, and then applies corrective actions within the existing framework of rules and assumptions. Unlike double-loop learning, it does not question or modify the underlying governing variables — it operates within fixed parameters to correct deviations. The persistence mechanism is institutional practice: documented procedures, feedback loops, and corrective protocols embedded in organizational routines and training. [formal: singulus-circulus | substrate: behavior | horizon: hours | explicit: yes | epoch: 0.01]
Accepted ontology entry
single-loop-learning
Single-loop-learning is a human-made learning mechanism in which an organization or system detects errors by comparing actual performance against a set of standards or goals, and then applies corrective actions within the existing framewor…
Definition
Why it is in scope
A human-made learning process that detects and corrects errors by adjusting actions, strategies, or operations within a fixed set of underlying goals, norms, and assumptions. Developed by organizational theorists Chris Argyris and Donald Schön as the simpler form of organizational learning, contrasted with double-loop-learning. Built for incremental improvement without challenging foundational frameworks.
Names and aliases
- single-loop-learningen · CANONICAL
Relations from this entry
- cmrhajc2b015x8aehc613gx7cINSTANCE_OF →
A single-loop-learning IS a specific kind of learning: detects and corrects errors within existing frameworks without questioning underlying assumptions. Clean specific→general (Law 9).
Relations to this entry
- cmsi7if0u00108vh5oqxwjlhn← DERIVED_FROM
Tested direction: single-loop learning existed first and conceptually fed into double-loop learning. Argyris and Schon developed double-loop learning as an explicit extension of the single-loop model. Law 7: which came first? Single-loop predates and materially informed the double-loop construct.
Record identity
- Created
- Aug 7, 2026, 12:29 AM UTC
- Content hash
- df1a4f9b1fe8c2f100891f116dc3cedbccf233605dc3d722038235740a10c26d