Engaging tacit knowledge in support of organizational learning

Purpose – The purpose of the paper is to identify and develop an understanding of the aspects of tacit knowledge that play a significant role in enabling organizational learning.Design/methodology/approach – Taking a multi‐dimensional approach, this paper moves toward an understanding of tacit knowledge through the lens of neuroscience, evolutionary biology, psychology, competency theory and knowledge management. The paper begins with the definition of knowledge, then discusses explicit, implicit and tacit knowledge and their relationships. Then individual learning is explored through the four aspects of tacit knowledge (embodied, affective, intuitive, and spiritual). Next the concept of extraordinary consciousness is developed and a four‐fold action model proposed for working with tacit knowledge to improve organizational learning. Finally, this model is engaged to begin the exploration of the role of leadership with respect to tacit knowledge and organizational learning.Findings – The recognition that t...