Building Teams that Learn

Abstract

The article focuses on a recent study by Amy Edmondson of Harvard University that provides a framework for understanding team learning, and identifies several critical factors that influence learning and performance in teams. Building on previous research on organizational learning and team effectiveness, Edmondson tested several predictions regarding the relationship between team learning and performance. The results of the study confirmed the author's central predictions. In particular, team performance was significantly influenced by the extent to which teams engaged in learning activities such as seeking feedback, discussing errors, reflecting, and experimenting. Edmondson's study further suggests that psychological safety enables team learning behavior. She also found that team leader coaching appears to facilitate the development of psychological safety within teams. A final conclusion is related to the importance of a team's history for the development of a climate of openness and supportiveness among team members.