Learning is the cornerstone of improvement and progress. But, did you know there are three levels of learning: single-loop, double-loop and triple-loop learning? You should, because all three matter.

Without learning, no individual or organization ever improves or develops over time. As such, it is (or should be!) a key aspect of managing any organization and any HR program.

There’s learning and learning. Or, more precisely, there’s single-loop, double-loop and triple-loop learning. This is what they mean:

Single-Loop Learning: Are we doing things right?
This first type of learning is about the relationship between actions and results. It takes place when actions do not lead to the intended results, or when there are results of which it is unclear which actions produced it. The learning that takes place is that of finding out that one action doesn’t work and replacing that by other actions. In a simple scheme:

A doesn’t work → try action B

Double-Loop Learning: Are we doing the right things?
This type of learning takes place a level higher than single-loop learning. It challenges our assumptions and beliefs about what we think should be done. Single-loop learning is about redefining means and double-loop learning about redefining ends. It occurs when we change our goals and plans. In a simple scheme:

X isn’t the correct goal → replace by goal Y

Triple-Loop Learning: How do we decide what is right?
The highest level and most abstract of all three, triple-loop learning is about the standards and measures we apply to our decision-making in the first place. It concerns the criteria, processes and methods we use to decide our goals and plans and make choices. In a simple scheme:

1 isn’t an appropriate criterion → apply criterion 2

All three forms are important and needed. Their frequency reduces from single to double to triple-loop learning. But their impact increases. Typically:

- Single-loop learning is high in frequency and low in impact.

- Double-loop learning is medium in frequency and in impact.

- Triple-loop learning is low in frequency and high in impact.

The key question to ask yourself is: does sufficient learning take place at all three levels?