Using evaluation to understand the learning architecture of an organization

• Published in: Evaluation and program planning 1994-07, Vol.17 (3), p.315-325
• Main Author: Jenlink, Patrick M.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 0149-7189
• DOI: 10.1016/0149-7189(94)90011-6

This article presents an emerging theoretical perspective for understanding organizational learning and what it takes to build learning organizations. The concept of learning architecture is introduced as a critical element in understanding organizational learning. The learning architecture consists of the organization's framing mechanisms, memory, knowledge, and learning processes which connect these three structures. The article provides insight into the role of evaluation as an important link to (a) understanding the learning architecture of organizations, and (b) helping organizations to transform the learning organization ideal into reality. It concludes with a framework to guide evaluators in uncovering an organization's existing learning architecture and designing a new learning architecture essential to building a learning organization.