Action Learning
Reviewed and Updated: December 2007
Action Learning is a process which brings colleagues together to work on projects based on real issues and to make significant improvement while simultaneously enhancing their own skills. The learning is learner driven and individual development is as important as finding the solution to the problem.
Action Learning is well suited to problems and issues that are complex and not easily resolved. Learning occurs when the group, formed into a Learning Set, meets on a regular basis to discuss real work related situations and to undertake practical, problem solving activities. The learning set provides an ideal opportunity for participants to test out new ideas and projects, reflect on their experiences and provide one another with feedback, insight and mutual support.
Trained facilitators act as Action Learning Set Advisors and are an essential component as they manage the processes and the maintenance of the set. Action Learning is recognised as a key staff development methodology and as a vehicle to assist staff to manage change.
Websites
Wikipedia
Contains definitions, examples, references and case study.
Organisational Learning Strategies – Action Learning
An easy to understand look at what is action learning, when to use it, how to use it and its relationship to other learning strategies. The webpage’s author outlines three examples of action learning in industry and included is a short list of where to go for more information.
Action Learning and Action Research
Action learning and action research are closely related processes. Is there any real difference between these two terms? Discover how action learning and action research link to experiential learning and change.
Action Research Resources
Looking for a web site that links to a variety of papers on action research and related topics? These papers are associated with 'areol' - action research and evaluation online.
International Foundation for Action Learning
While part of this site is restricted to members only, you will still find it helpful as it has definitions on Action Learning, a FAQ section, a library list, links to web resources and links to other Action Learning Communities.
Action Learning
Although this website is no longer updated as the project has been completed, it is still worth a visit as the site contains a wealth of information. There are definitions, diagrams, resources and action learning case studies. Check out the 'Starting An Action Learning Set – Information Pack' (a Word document) at the bottom of the page.
Learning and Teaching: Action Learning
Do you want to read a short but concise article on Action Learning? Are you having a problem understanding the role of the advisor in the Action Learning process? Then this is the website for you! Describing Action Learning as a form of problem-based learning, this site discusses the principles and procedure for Action Learning.
Resource Papers in Action Learning
A large bibliography on action learning reading matter from 'areol' - action research and evaluation online.
Publications
McGILL, I & Brockbank, A 2004, The Action Learning Handbook: Powerful Techniques for Education, Professional Development and Training (Revised ed), RoutledgeFalmer, Taylor & Francis Group, UK.
This book probes into the technique for those new to action learning. The use of learning sets in action learning are detailed and explored in this practical book written for educators, trainers and developers.
McGILL, I & Beaty, L 1995, Action Learning, Clays Ltd, Great Britain.
A straightforward and practical guide describing key procedures and skills required to implement action learning. In this book you will find theory on action learning, skills for the facilitator and skills in running a workshop.
PEDLER, M 1995, Action Learning in Practice, Gower Publishing Company Ltd, Great Britain.
This book covers the theory, practice and implementation of action learning and includes the experiences of different facilitation methods.
WEISTEIN, K 1995, Action Learning A Journey in Discovery & Development, Harper Collins, London.
This book is a practical and easy to understand approach to action learning. It provides the reader with skills and exercises to assist in the processes of action learning.