Action Learning
An Introduction
Action Learning
Experiences?Perceptions?How can it “ add value”?
“A way of learning from our actions and what happens around us , by taking time to question, understand and reflect, to gain insight, and consider how to act in the future”Weinstein 1999
A different approach to learningfromMagerison1988
TRADITIONALHistorical case studiesIndividual focusLearning about othersStudy of otherorganisationsPlanningInput basedPast orientedLow riskPassiveTheories
ACTION LEARNINGCurrent real case studiesGroup based learningLearning about self and othersStudy of ownorganisationPlanning combined with DoingOutput/result basedFuture orientedHigh riskActivePractical application
Action Learning enables us to….
Learn from experienceShare experience with othersHave other colleagues challenge and support usTake that challenge and implement itReview with those colleagues the actions taken and the lessons learnt
Principles of Action Learning“Adults learn best when they are actually involved in their own learning about a current life situation. Adults who voluntarily choose a learning experience usually learn more readily.”
Emblem and Gray 1990
Guiding principles
Support and challengeListeningReflectionQuestioningFeedback (giving and receiving)
FIVE MAIN ELEMENTS OF ACTION LEARNING
The individual: who voluntarily joins the group
The set: a group of 5-8 people who meet regularly
The issue or task: each person brings something they want to work on
The process: challenge, support
The facilitator: who helps the group as it works and learns
Revans 1998
WHAT HAPPENS DURING AN ACTION LEARNING SET?
Learning happens on 3 levels
OneselfThe issueThe process of learning
BENEFITS OF ACTION LEARNING
INCREASED CONFIDENCE
INCREASED SELF-AWARENESS
ABILITY TO APPROACH PROBLEMS FROM A BROADER AND MORE POLITICAL PERSPECTIVE THAN IN THE PAST
MORE PROACTIVE THAN REACTIVE IN PROBLEM SOLVING AND DECISION MAKING
MORE REFLECTIVE THAN EMOTIONAL IN TENSE SITUATIONS
BETTER AT LISTENING
ACHIEVE GOALS MORE READILY
DEVELOP AND STIMULATE OTHERS IN THE ORGANISATION
Involvement in Action Learningrequires commitment-
Commitment to self-awarenessCommitment to the set and itsmembersCommitment to action and learning
THINGS TO AVOID IN AN ACTION LEARNING SET
Action Learning Phases
DefinitionData collectionDataanlaysisGeneration of optionsPresentation of recommendationsImplementation
Action Learning – Key skills
Listening with empathyChallenging with sensitivityManaging feelings“Counselling”Asking good questionsOffering and receiving feedbackAction planningGiving time to others’ problems
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