The term "Action Learning" describes types of team experiences ranging from mountain adventures and indoor wall climbing through simulations and real-life, real-time problem solving. Many people define it as "learning by doing!" Whether a physical exercise or a current situation identified by the president of the company in need of fixin', there are usually certain elements associated with the experience. These elements include problem solving with multiple solutions available; a team approach to the problem solving (many teams being cross-functional); and, significant learning about the process, the behavior of participants and, obviously, the issue(s).
The benefits of this type of learning can be as significant as dramatic productivity and financial gains. Sharing knowledge of issues and process gained from the experience(s) can be important to the organization in future endeavors.
Taken in the context of the training and organizational development environment, the goals of "Action Learning" include leadership and team development. Additionally, certain technical expertise may be attained. The cross-functional nature of many of the experiences may improve communication flow as well as break down barriers (silos) that may exist in organizations.
Action Learning Devices: Outdoor TEAM Experiences, Indoors
Action Learning Devices provide an environment for accelerated learning, a stage for viewing individual, group and organizational behaviors, and a versatile tool for enhancing employee and organizational development programs.
Collaborative efforts and systems thinking for teams and organizations: Network™ requires teams of 4 to 8 participants working together to mark coordinates on targets.
Collaboration, improved communication, and shared resources: Pyramid™ engages 8 to 20 participants to simultaneously pick up and reposition objects of varying values (like operating a crane).
Organization and cross-functional teams moving in the same direction with the same mission: TeamTrek™ challenges teams to find the most effective means of transporting themselves toward their goal using 10-person (also 6, 5, or 4) heavy-duty, rubber skis.
jobPeformance.com can assist your organization in identifying how Action Learning can help develop leadership and teams.
