›› 2019, Vol. 31 ›› Issue (10): 290-304.

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From "Individual Heroes" to "an Outstanding Organization"——A Case Study of the Schema Formation Mechanisms of “Step Progression” under the Organizational Context

Su Jingqin, Liu Dianguang   

  1. School of Economics and Management, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024
  • Received:2018-05-17 Online:2019-10-28 Published:2019-11-05

Abstract:

The Schema is the core cognitive structure which exists in the organization in long-term. It embodies the shared knowledge structure and consistent belief structure of the organization, and has a fundamental impact on organizational behavior. However, there are still research gaps in the existing studies on the "generalization" and "solidification" mechanisms of the Schema formation. Based on Schema theories, Organizational Learning and other related theories, through case studies, this paper finds that from "individual possess" to "group share", Schema is driven by key individuals; under the unified promotion of the organization, the Schema develops from "group share" to "organization own", thus achieving the Schema "generalization"; individuals, groups and organizations all experience 3 key steps:perception, learning and memory, which help them achieve the Schema "solidification"; overall, the Schema presents a "step progression" formation mechanisms. The research theoretically refines the Schema formation mechanisms, portrays the Schema "Z" curve formation path, extends the Schema to the organizational complex task context, reinforces empirical evidence for the Schema theory and provides inspiration for cultural development in practice.

Key words: Schema, formation mechanisms, step progression, generalization, solidification