In-house action learning sets
for organisational development
What does action learning offer?
Action learning can provide development that goes way beyond the standard training programme. Creating a network of learning sets is a powerful way of encouraging self-managed learning in the workplace.
Action learning sets can meet for a series of whole or half day sessions at regular intervals, over six to twelve months. Individual set members identify particular areas of development or projects that they wish to work on during the lifetime of the set. They may be peers across the organisation who want to have an opportunity to share their learning and exchange best practice. Alternatively they may be staff members who are working together on a common project or a change programme. Action learning can help them work more effectively together.
The action learning set gives them time to problem solve, plan together and develop strategies for overcoming organisational blocks. They will have a development opportunity which enables them to support each other in their work and to challenge each other on how best to achieve their goals.
Action learning can be especially useful following a management development programme. It can focus on the transfer of learning to the live challenges of the workplace. Participants can continue to support each other through a structured networking time in which to focus on individual and shared learning.
How can Action Learning Associates help?
A facilitator from Action Learning Associates will act as a catalyst and coordinator, supporting participants throughout this process, after which the set may become self-facilitating.
Frequently, potential in-house facilitators emerge from the initial action learning sets, they can be trained to provide new sets to other managers. We can provide training in facilitation, and support in setting up new sets. Within a year, many organisations find they have a self-sustaining network of action learning sets – and a highly cost-effective process for continuing management development.
‘ We quickly built up a rapport and trusted each other’
‘ Good networking contacts’
‘ The opportunity to discuss career and managerial development issues in a low risk environment’
‘ Space to think’
Quotes from participants in one in-house action learning set in a public regulatory body