Triple-loop learning involves transforming who we are by creating a shift in our context or point of view about ourselves. It involves “learning how to learn” by reflecting on how we learn in the first place. Something we thought and felt (and had manifested in our behavior) has come into question. In this situation, participants would reflect on how they think about the “rules,” not only on whether the rules should be changed. This form of learning helps us to understand a great deal more about ourselves and others regarding beliefs and perceptions. Triple-loop learning might be explained as double-loop learning about double-loop learning.
Most executive coaching takes place at the incremental level (embody new skills and capabilities), sometimes at the level of reframing (reshape patterns of thinking), but seldom at the transformational level (a shift in context or point of view). Authentic Leadership International, as an Ontological Coaching company, takes a triple-loop learning approach.