Using fieldwork to deepen understanding of organizational learning and/or the learning organization

Abstract

Purpose In an effort to encourage more probing studies of organizational learning and the learning organization (OL/LO), this paper aims to highlight the value of extended periods of fieldwork and suggest priorities for future fieldwork-based research into OL/LO. Design/methodology/approach The paper draws on the author’s research and consultancies in the OL/LO field and on systematic reviews of OL/LO literature. Findings Evidence is presented to justify the following four priorities for future fieldwork-based studies of OL/LO: to obtain trustworthy data, to bring the role of time and place into sharp focus, to explore the relationship between organizational learning and interests and to identify strategies for improving organizational learning in particular contexts. Originality/value The paper suggests priorities for a research approach that is not often used to study organizational learning and the learning organization, namely, to undertake extended periods of fieldwork in individual organizations or parts of organizations, gathering trustworthy data and interpreting it with the help of extant OL/LO theory.

Application of learning organization 2.0: a case study of Ricoh Ena Forest Japan

“…The observation enables the researchers to collect objective data through the development of the physical forest area to be coherent with the narratives provided by the staff on its purpose and changes. Fieldwork method has been observed to be an effective method for data collection of LO studies given the opportunity for the researcher to observe and draw conclusions about the learning processes that are taking place (Field, 2020). According to Field (2020), as OL occurs and develops during particular time periods, failure to consider time and space and the iteration of extended fieldwork would lead to untrustworthy data and “exaggerated claims” about the phenomenon of a “temporary” LO.…”

“…Fieldwork method has been observed to be an effective method for data collection of LO studies given the opportunity for the researcher to observe and draw conclusions about the learning processes that are taking place (Field, 2020). According to Field (2020), as OL occurs and develops during particular time periods, failure to consider time and space and the iteration of extended fieldwork would lead to untrustworthy data and “exaggerated claims” about the phenomenon of a “temporary” LO. Using a fieldwork method over an extended period provides more reliability on the qualitative data collected and enables deeper analytical analysis that is consistent for single case research.…”

Towards increased understanding of organizational learning

“…In view of potential shortcomings, Field (2020) proposes various measures that can potentially enhance the quality and effectiveness of fieldwork-based research. Trustworthiness of data is identified as the first of several key priorities.…”

Reflecting on learning organization concepts for practical application

“…This issue of the learning organization contains reflection on various learning topics through varying methods. The content starts with four articles that reflect on different elements of the learning organization ranging from organizational forgetting (Casey et al, 2020) to exploration methods (Field, 2020), learning region structural analysis method (Knudsen, 2020) and practical and contextual perspectives (Mak and Hong, 2020). In addition to these four articles reflecting upon the theories and literature within the field, this issue includes two interview articles that explore the evolution of learning organizations from the perspectives of those who were instrumental in development.…”

“…For a practitioner, Field (2020) illustrates a perfect occasion for involvement into the academic environment. Field's (2020) article is a plea for prolonged, wide engagement across any organization. And, although not explicitly stated in the article, practitioner involvement is a possible answer.…”