However, many people are tempted to try to do just this. One of the
main reasons for writing this book can be found in our amazement as
what is currently described and sold as action learning. We are part of the
movement to bring the action learning idea into practice in the world and
our aspiration is to ensure that it is not sold short. Acknowledging
that there is no one right or fi nal way to describe action learning, here is
our shot at describing action learning as it is currently applied in
many settings today: ‘Action learning is an approach to individual and
organizational learning. Working in small groups known as “sets”, people
tackle important organizational or social challenges and learn from their
attempts to improve things.’
This sounds straightforward enough, and it is: action learning brings
people together to exchange, support and challenge each other in action
and learning: