Date of Award

Spring 2023

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Department

Organizational Leadership

First Advisor

Dr. Bethany Peters

Second Advisor

Dr. Joshua Henson

Third Advisor

Dr. Debra Dean

Abstract

Continuous learning is critical for workers and organizations, but traditional learning strategies may be less effective as constantly changing business demands and individual needs among diverse and geographically dispersed workers may create barriers to performance and sustainability. Although alternative learning approaches such as experiential and double-loop learning may introduce risks by uncovering new challenges, they may also benefit workers and organizations when designed to bolster empathy and encourage a better understanding of pressures and stress. Reflective writing is an adaptable alternative learning approach that can be paired with existing workplace learning strategies or tailored to specific needs and learning outcomes. As this topic has not been widely studied in corporate environments, the current research discovered how reflective writing experiences might influence workers’ learning and well-being. Data from individual and guided writing experiences were analyzed using a hermeneutic phenomenological method. The results suggested that self-awareness, critical thinking, and emotional release may be potential benefits of reflective writing and offered reflective writing as a possible means for organizations to enhance workplace learning and well-being.


Share

COinS