Measurement Instruments as a Tool for Advancing

We critically reflect on the field of organizational learning and present one way to advance this important area of research. We propose theory explication and empirical research – in particular research aimed at model testing and refinement – as viable avenues for addressing the fragmentation of the field. We identify the lack of measurement instruments for organizational learning as a key impediment for this endeavor and propose that the development of such instruments will address the problems arising from this issue. Using the spiral of knowledge model (Nonaka, 1994; Nonaka & Takeuchi, 1995) to illustrate the instrument development process, we highlight difficulties arising at different stages in the formulation of research instruments, and discuss ways of dealing with them. This approach contributes to, broadens, and complements recent recommendations on enhancing the fruitfulness of organizational learning research (e.g., Argyris, 1996; Miner & Mezias, 1996; Weick & Westley, 1996). 1 Please address correspondence to Dr. Martin Fellenz, School of Business Studies, Trinity College, Dublin 2, Ireland. Phone: +353-1-608-2630; fax: +353-1-679-9503; email: [email protected].