Collegial Action Learning uses learner-centric design principles to enable professional knowledge workers to thrive in a world of wicked problems. This article describes the flow of a kick-off session of a Collegial Action Learning initiative. We reframe the learning process by starting with the real interests and priorities of the learners. We then come back […]
Leverage Agency, Purpose and Connection to Drive Transformation
The following is a rough overview of factors I have considered in the design of initiatives using an action research methodology called Collegial Action Learning. Collegial Action Learning combines individual reflection, ideation and experimentation with collaborative reflection, learning and ideation to spur additional individual action. In an CAL initiative, professionals refine and test their own […]
Let the learners own the learning!
Many executives say they would like to see their people take more initiative to learn and change, but our basic assumptions about learning may get in the way. Over the years, I’ve experimented with many learner-centric modalities that give learners more ownership of objectives, approaches and outcomes. This post describes what I have learned from […]
The downsides of framing learning as a marketplace
In my last post, I looked at the role of the teacher in the learning process. I described my sense that great teachers are great because they help learners find their own reasons for learning. I also lamented the fact that formal learning systems tend to be teacher-centric and teaching-centric, and that this seems acceptable […]
Great teachers let the learner take charge
The teaching profession has always held a certain attraction for me. I don’t think I am unique in saying that many of those who have had the greatest impact on my thinking have been teachers. I have great respect for the champions of education, including those with alternative titles such as facilitator, trainer, coach or […]
Mindset – Do you REALLY believe you can learn?
Do you really believe you can learn? According to Carol Dweck, author of Mindset, this is a more nuanced question than you might think. Her research indicates that people operate with one of two assumptions about their abilities. Some people assume their abilities are innate and cannot be changed. Dweck calls this a fixed mindset. Others assume […]
Clear Expectations Set the Stage for Effective Feedback and Coaching
We are in a feedback and coaching boom. Most people agree that if your goal is to change behavior, feedback and coaching are more useful than screaming and criticizing. Indeed, some managers have become so committed to feedback and coaching that they avoid giving directions at all. Their rationale is that they don’t want to […]
Punishing mistakes can be risky business
When you realize you’ve made a mistake or that you are heading toward one, how do you react? My work with organizations often incorporates concepts and tools with roots in action research and positive psychology. Action research is a methodology for bringing the power of the scientific method and collaborative learning to the workplace. Positive psychology explores […]
TRUE GRIT = Passion + Perseverance x Purpose
Are you keeping your nose to the grindstone? Most people know the value of hard work, so it isn’t surprising that when achievement-oriented people are dissatisfied with their performance they usually ask themselves, “Could I be working harder? “The answer, of course, is usually “Yes.” There’s always another hour to carve out of sleeping time, […]
Quality Time
When was the last time you took a little break, got away from it all and spent a little quality time with your work? The amount of time we devote to work is truly impressive, but how much quality do we get with the quantity? If you’ve ever multi-tasked your way through a long, hectic […]