Towards a deeper understanding of strategic learning

Abstract

Purpose – The understanding of strategic learning processes seems to be fragmented and tangled in many disciplines. To construct a meaningful understanding of strategic learning, various disciplines were reviewed and synthesized, and a strategic learning model was developed based on the analysis of previous models. The purpose of this paper is to provide a deeper understanding of underlying theories of strategic learning and its model. Design/methodology/approach – The theory of strategic learning is an evolving theory so that first, the literature that helps conceptualize the strategic learning, second, the founding pieces of the literature that composite the theory; and third, the most emerging literature in the strategy discipline are selected to explain the strategic learning model. Based on the thorough review of the literature, new conceptual model of strategic learning is introduced. Findings – In both strategy literature and organizational literature, the existing strategic learning models can be evaluated to fully capture the distinctive aspects of learning in strategy process. Various learning theories are encompassed to construct the model. Research limitations/implications – This extended strategic learning model requires empirical testing to identify dimensions of strategic learning. Practical implications – The extended strategic learning model will be useful to bring about strategic change, conversation, and behavior. Originality/value – This conceptual model integrates many theories and important concepts. The foundational theories identified in this study also open up new research ideas for scholars using both quantitative and qualitative approaches.