The learning organisation against a ceiling: can it move beyond the barrier?
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Date
2015
Authors
Du Plessis, D. F.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Department of Communication Science, University of the Free State
Abstract
In this critical literature review of the learning organisation and specifically the
spirituality dimension of the concept, the aim is to identify possible aspects that
will assist in operationalising the idea. The learning organisation concept is wellestablished
and has been applied globally since being made popular in 1990 by
Peter Senge. The concept promised huge potential and in many cases made a
significant difference in the organisations where it was implemented. The emphasis
is on learning in the organisation which makes it possible to adapt more rapidly
to changes in the environment. However, its implementation was met with mixed
success. For many reasons it is difficult or even impossible to establish the ideal
learning organisation. This article proposes that one of the variables that inhibited
proper implementation of the learning organisation concept can be the lack of
accounting for spirituality in the organisation. Spirituality in organisations (such
as a sense of purpose, and meaningful engagement) is a fundamental assumption
of the learning organisation. More research needs to be done to investigate the
role of spirituality in an organisational context with the aim of unlocking the
potential of operationalising the learning organisation concept.
Description
Keywords
Learning organisation, Organisational communication, Spirituality
Citation
Du Plessis, D. F. (201). The learning organisation against a ceiling: can it move beyond the barrier?. Communitas, 20, 45-61.