The power of Action Learning

As part of our Leading Growth leadership programmes, delegates take part in Action Learning Sets (ALS). In our latest blog, we discuss what an action learning set is, and why they are an integral part of our leadership programmes.

Our programmes are delivered through a mixture of highly participative master classes and experiential learning. It is worth mentioning that until the summer of 2020 we have always run our programmes face-to-face. However, due to the Covid-19 pandemic, we have had to move to deliver virtually - and that includes action learning sets.

What is action learning?

Action learning is a powerful process used in a group setting to tackle problems where there are no clear-cut or simple solutions. It draws upon the principle that we learn most effectively when we address problems within a small group, providing a supportive yet challenging environment.

It was originally developed as a concept by Revans in the 1940s, who believed that the most effective learning arose from combining the existing knowledge held by the problem-holder with insightful questioning of this knowledge by others. In other words, it is based on the principle that we have all the knowledge and resources inside us to solve our problems, it just requires someone to ask those questions to help unearth these resources from within us.

It is called 'action' because the issue holder is expected to 'take action' as a key component of the process and is held accountable to the group for achieving this action. The 'learning' element is also important, not only for the issue holder but also for other set members. The process of reflection plays a large part in aiding the learning process with space for the issue holder to reflect on their issue.

It differs from other group solving problem-solving interventions in that, in its purest form, it is about the set members asking coaching questions of the issue holder to help them reflect on their issue and identify their own solutions for moving forward, not advice-giving.

Why we use Action Learning Sets

Leadership Development Specialist Tony Burnett explains why ALS are an integral part of our programme.

"Action Learning Sets, ION style, have always been really powerful activities for all the delegates as they themselves take away business development tactics that invariably have a huge impact on their business. The ALS engages participants in 3 ways:

• Empathise - It's an opportunity to share a real challenge from their workplace with people who really understand and can build actions to work towards a solution
• Modelling - The participants adopt an innovative coaching (many-to-one) technique which can be transferred and repeated to the daily reality to resolve issues
• Confidence Building - All participants recognise common challenges from a variety of workplace realities and can take real encouragement from that."

What our delegates say

Delegates on our current Leading Growth programme completed their action learning sets recently, and based on their feedback, it's safe to say that everyone benefited hugely from the sessions - the problem holders, and those asking the questions.

• "The presentation sessions really added value for all involved. It helped us to help each other in a safe space. I have learned things today on so many different levels and it was lovely to see all of us be so supportive and be able to give feedback on how to move forward and solve some of the issues raised."
• "I wanted to say how amazing I found this morning's session and was blown away by the brilliant presentations of my fellow action learning set group, looking forward to the future having learned lots more about them and myself."
• "Within my ALS, I think it's fair to say that we all learned something from each of the presentations delivered, and also from the passionate way each member of the team spoke about their chosen subjects. Thank you for facilitating such a thought-provoking and inspiring morning."
• "It was a wonderful and insightful session today. It took us to places and situations that resonated on many levels and brought up a few ah-ha moments that will stick with us for a long time. Who would have thought learning could be so much fun and exciting."
• "Thanks for another inspiring session. I am so impressed with the knowledge, skills, and passion of my fellow delegates. They never fail to inspire."

Interested in taking part in an action learning set? Why not find out more about our upcoming leadership programmes.