A learning model of policy implementation: Implementing technology in response to policy requirements

This study integrates organizational learning and change theory into a learning model of policy implementation. This is an exploratory study of technology implementation with descriptive and normative objectives, utilizing organizational learning and change theory to identify organizational conditions that promote learning and contribute to achieving implementation objectives. Learning in policy implementation is studied in the context of a pair of technology related policies set in a higher education context, one serving an administrative function1 and the other an instructional function.2 Schwandt and Marquardt's (2000) Organizational Learning System Model (OLSM) is used to evaluate the presence and development of organizational learning in these policy contexts, and serves to develop an enriched model of policy implementation.;Data was collected via interviews, documentation review, and direct observation in order to identify and examine conditions that support learning at the individual and organizational levels, and advance the achievement of implementation objectives. The conditions include: inter-organizational networks; communication with policymakers; policy and goal congruency; experimentation; roles and responsibilities; internal communication; and evaluation and routinization. Implementation objectives reflect the demands of the policy, use of the technology and aims of the organization. Evidence of organizational learning was observed as changes in organizational membership and culture, as well as the development of new operational systems. Further, this learning contributed to meeting implementation objectives. Implications on policy implementation include the need for policymakers to consider policy development from an organizational perspective and suggest strategies for managers to advance organizational learning in the implementation process.;1The implementation of the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) will be studied from a campus perspective. SEVIS is a federal system to monitor international students studying in the United States.;2The development and expansion of online course offerings by an academic department serves as a contrasting case. The policy direction here is much more diffuse and is coupled with the department's efforts to grow enrollment.