“Making use of Double Loop Learning”.
(Note: To be used only in advanced mediation trainings).
Concept of “Double Loop Learning” was created by Chris Argyris. This is now considered as a very effective tool to make the communication more effective.
Difference between Single Loop Learning and Double Loop Learning:-
Single Loop Learning:
It involves a process where learners have a definite objective. They already know what they have to do. Their objective is identified. They only learn to change the methods to reach the objective. They learn to make themselves more efficient to achieve their objectives.
Double loop learning
It involves a process where the learners learn as to why they are required to change their objectives.
In this process of learning learners (i) Start analysing their own presumptions, perceptions about the objectives already in their mind. (ii) Go through the process of deep and reflective questioning about their own presumptions, perceptions about the objectives already in their mind. (iii) They go through the process of understanding the pros and cons of their identified objectives (iv) They go through the process of understanding as to whether there is a need to change their objective (v) They go through the process of finding new alternatives- options so that they can find and define a new objective .
Adopting and integrating the method of Double loop learning in mediation helps the parties to understand the areas where they need to change their mindset from a fixed goal , which alone was thought to be good for them according to them, towards a different goal , which can also be considered by them.
Why is it important to integrate this technique in mediation?
- At times parties define their problem from their own perspective and come with a prepared mind set that a or b or c is /are the only solution/s to the problem.
- Parties may not be prepared to look at the problems and possible solutions through other frames.
- Their understanding of the problem may require a re look .
- Their understanding as to what exactly are their underlying needs and interests may require a deeper level of personal introspection.
- Mediator can help them go through this learning process without making them compromise on their “Right of self determination.”
When is it used:
- To achieve the objectives of principled negotiation:
a) to help the parties separate the person from the problem
b)To help the party’s focus on how bad the other party ( according to him/her) to what exactly is the problem.
c) Where there is misunderstanding- mis communication- lack of required essential information.
ii) It is generally used in the first stage of negotiation /[Negotiation stage (1)] where parties come out with their options as the only options for resolution of dispute. (2) Where parties refuse to generate any other option (3) Where parties do not want to even receive the options generated on the mediation table.
How do trainers use this:
- Trainers explain the concept of single and double loop learning to participants( already Trained mediators who have handled at least 50 number of mediations ).
- Give a situational role play
- Give general information
- Situation is chosen- Example: 4th private session
- Party A comes out with 1, and 2 options as only, and his objective is to achieve both these objectives.
- Mediator takes the participant ( party A– role player) through the process of double loop learning.
- Another Mediator takes the participant ( party B– role player) through the process of double loop learning., who has identified Option 3 as the best option and his objective is to achieve this.
Skills to be used by the mediator:
Effective -reflective questioning skills with the sound knowledge of neutral reframing.
“Education without application is just entertainment.”
(Tim Sanders-New York times Bestselling Author- Public Speaker)
(All copyrights reserved by the author S.Susheela)
Training of Trainers in Mediation 