Key Elements of a Definition
In spite of the above complications, researchers do not have any hesitation in creating their own definitions of organizational learning. Consequently, definitions are as many as there are writers on the subject. These definitions vary greatly in terms of the breadth of ideas covered. Table I lists some of the definitions for illustrative purposes. Three of them come from review articles which serve as useful guides for empirical researchers. With the exception of Cook and Yanow (1993) who define organizational learning from a cultural perspective, most definitions entail aspects of both cognitive and behavioral changes. The cognitive aspect is generally concerned with knowledge, understanding, and insights. But there is a split among the definitions on whether a change in actual or potential behavior is required. By potential behavioral change, we mean the lessons learned by an organization would have impact upon its future behavior.