Action Learning, the secret to embedding development?

A management development programme I developed BC ( before covid) and that was piloted and revised during and PC  ( post covid)  involves action learning sets as a mandatory element required for successful completion.  You are perhaps asking why?

During the first iteration of the programme action learning was available but not mandatory. Not all participants attended but those that did spoke with enthusiasm about the benefits they gained. At this point BC the session and learning was in person. The pilot end and then came Covid.

Like many will have experienced,  there was an urgency to bring the learning online and to revise the structure based upon participant feedback. It was at this point I took the decision to make Action Learning Sets mandatory.   

It was now a build your own course based upon both your own and your managers thoughts around areas for development.

It would have been possible to complete the course without interacting with another human being. Here’s where action learning played a part.  It allowed participants to come together, network, share their challenges, plan for the future and embed learning.

The final action learning set was completed this week.  I’d like to share feedback from 2 participants.

#1 Since the last session I have had the opportunity to work with much more senior colleagues and I grasped the opportunity and ran with it. I’m now looking for other ways to carry on this development. I feel much more confident and would never have done this without this programme.

#2 After the last session I went away and considered the conversation we had together. I put in place plans should the challenging situation happen again. I wouldn’t hesitate to respond this time , having already rehearsed it in my mind and banked useful phrases.

Both participants were speaking animatedly and their confidence radiated through.

I believe that only by sharing their challenges were these advancements made. I truly  believe that whilst knowledge would have been taken away from an e-learning course, action learning gave a safe space to build trust, explore challenges and put in place strategies and solutions prompting the attendees to commit to action. It also allowed friendship and support to blossom.

So my advice to you, wherever possible try to include action learning as it really is a very powerful tool helping to embed learning, provide safe networking opportunities and to demonstrate progress to others starting their journey.

www.thegrowcoach.co.uk

peter@thegrowcoach.co.uk