What Is Action Learning?
Action learning is a problem-solving tool that at the
same time builds successful leaders, teams and organizations.
The action learning process has six components,
which will be briefly explained below and then explored
in greater detail in the rest of the summary.
The six components of action learning are:
1. A problem. Action learning centers on a problem
or, more specifically, a project, challenge, opportunity,
issue or task. The resolution of this problem has to be of
great importance to the organization — action learning
is not for minor issues. The problem must be significant
and urgent.
2. A group. The second component of action learning
is an action learning group or team. The ideal group has
four to eight diverse members, who bring various perspectives
and fresh viewpoints to the task of resolving a
significant organizational problem.
3. Questions. A process of insightful questioning and
reflective listening is key to the success of the action
learning initiative. Action learning succeeds because the
process focuses on the right questions, not the right
answers. Questions build group cohesiveness, generate
innovative and systems thinking, and enhance learning
results.
4. Action. Action learning requires that the action
learning group be able to take action on the problem to
which it has been assigned. The group must either have
the power to take action, or be assured that its recommendations
will be implemented. If neither of these
conditions is in place, raising the specter of recommendations
sitting in the bottom of a drawer, the team will
lose its focus and energy.
5. Learning. An equal commitment to learning is also
essential for the success of action learning. While the
short-term action steps needed to address the problem
will be valuable to the company, it is the long-term
learning gained through the exercise that most benefits
the organization and its members.
6. A coach. To keep the group focused on the important
as well as the urgent, an action learning coach is
required. Through helping group members reflect on
how they listen or how they may have reframed the
problem, for example, the coach keeps the group
focused on what they are achieving, what they are finding
difficult, what processes they are employing, and the
implications of those processes.
Action learning is at its peak if all six of these components
are in operation, interweaving and reinforcing
each other.
Solving Problems at National Semiconductor
Here’s an example of what action learning can offer a
company:
Executives at National Semiconductor’s Portland,
Maine, plant recognized that they were having difficulties
providing quality service at AT&T (National
Semiconductor is one of AT&T’s major suppliers).
Their response was to create an action learning team
called the Customer Request Improvement Team.