1. BMA533: Theories for Action (Class # 7)
Fall, 2005

2. Goals
Explore dynamics of “micro-leadership”– leading in interpersonal small group situations
Understand “theories for action” and how they influence (a) effectiveness and (b) ability to learn from experience

3. Tonight’s agenda Introduction to case: how effective was Sandy? Why?
Leadership challenge: 4 rounds
Theories for action

4. What grade would you give Sandy?
A – outstanding performance
B – good, but not outstanding
C – Fair, some things good, some not so good
D – Mediocre, Sandy did more things wrong than right
F – Very poor, Sandy basically flubbed the entire assignment

5. Round
Boss
Sandy
Discussion Leader 1 6 LB 2 5 3a 3 4 3b 4a 4b Ro

6. Break

7. “There is nothing so practical as a good theory.” --Kurt Lewin

8. Theories for action
Espoused theory: the account an individual provides to describe, explain or predict her/his own behavior
Theory-in-use: the program (set of decision rules) that would produce an individual’s behavior

9. Model I Made Simple: Everyone’s Theory-in-Use

10. Model II (adapted from Argyris and Schön)
Core Values
Strategies
Outcomes
Valid information
Free, informed choice
Internal commitment
Combine advocacy & inquiry
Collaborate in designing and managing relationships, processes
Public testing
Double-loop learning