How Does Reflection Mediate Organizational Change in Museums? Applying the Double-Loop Model to Informal Environments

• In Event: Organizational Theory Across and Beyond the Education Sector

Abstract

Museums and other informal learning environments are taking on a more significant role in the pursuit of important educational goals. In particular, greater attention is being paid to their capacity to address educational inequity by reaching audiences who find school environments hostile or alienating. Research shows that significant changes will be required if museums are to succeed in this capacity. This study explores how and when museums made equity-related changes in response to the opportunities created by a traveling exhibition on race. We use the theory of double-loop learning to examine how organizational reflection mediated change. Preliminary results reveal the importance of reflection prior to the exhibition’s arrival, and draw our attention to theories of readiness for change.

Authors

• Noah Weeth Feinstein, University of Wisconsin - Madison

• Esther HsuBorger, University of Wisconsin - Madison

• Karin Spader, University of Wisconsin - Madison

• Corinna Phelps West, University of Wisconsin - Madison