Framework
The knowing-doing gap
Definition
The knowing-doing gap is the difference between being able to explain something and being able to use it in relevant conditions. Practice, feedback, knowledge, opportunity, and support all affect whether that gap closes.
An explanation is one kind of evidence
A person can describe a good delegation process and still take work back whenever pressure rises. The explanation shows something useful. It does not show how the person handles that pressure.
Find out what is missing
The gap may involve knowledge, practice, unclear expectations, incentives, or a lack of opportunity. More training is not always the right response.
When practice is needed, give the person a relevant task, feedback on a specific action, and another attempt. Make the support available explicit. Check whether the changed behavior appears in a different situation and later in work.
Two uses of the record
The individual needs an observation they can act on. The organization needs a bounded account of what was demonstrated and what remains unknown.
Related concepts
- What-to-think vs. how-to-think · Knowledge supports judgment. Practice gives people opportunities to use it when the answer is not already supplied.
- Richness and Reach · Map cognitive demand and participation. Classify the actual experience, not its delivery format.
- The Thinking Effect · Examine an assumption, make a decision, learn from what happens, and try again.
Where this comes up
Bring a real problem
What does your learning need to change?
A role people are struggling with. A decision that keeps going wrong. A capability you need to see before giving someone more responsibility. Start there.