Action Learning

What is Action Learning?

Action Learning is an approach, a philosophy about learning.

Beliefs and Assumptions of Action Learning

Learning is “cradled in the task”

Formal instruction is not sufficient

Problems require insightful questions

Learning involves doing

Learning is voluntary and active

Risk and feedback are essential elements of Action Learning

Reinterpreting past experience is as important as acquiring new knowledge

“Expertise” resides within a properly convened set – external information givers are invited when needed JiT

Facilitation should only be used to “kick-start” the set

Learning is measured by the results of action

Action Learning multiplies in its wider community

Objectives of action learning

To make useful progress on the treatment of a real world issue

To give set members scope to approach (often poorly structured) challenges which currently have no satisfactory response

To instil in their organisation the sense that learning from and with each other is an organisational duty (and is very different from teaching and being taught)

Fundamentally Action Learning is a change strategy

Learning involves changing the self

Advising (sharing expertise in a set; promulgating set learning to the wider community) involves changing others

Deciding (taking action) changes the external world

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