MANAGING

INNOVATION
Action Learning Sets

What is Action Learning?

It is defined as a"continuous process of learning and

reflection, supported by colleagues, with an intention
of getting things done" (McGill and Beaty, 2001,
p.11). In other words, individuals work on real work
issues and openly reflect on their experiences with a
view to taking subsequent action. One of the
fundamental aims ofaction learningis to help
participants develop the skills and make time for
active reflection in order to solve their own problems.

Source - http://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/social-policy/departments/health
services-management-centre/work/action-learning-sets.aspx

How does it work?

Action learning sets are small groups of people who

are willing to offer as well as seek help from one
another in a supportive and confidential learning
environment. For the participant in a learning set,
action learning involves identifying a situation you
want to change or improve a situation that is
significant enough to act as a vehicle for the
individuals learning (Cumming and Hall, 2001).

Source - http://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/social-policy/departments/health
services-management-centre/work/action-learning-sets.aspx

How does it work? Contd.

The process of sharing the issue with a

group of fellow learners (the learning
set) enables the individual to tap into the
ideas and experiences of others and gain
different and deeper insights. This
increased understanding then provides
the impetus for action; applying what
Source -has
http://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/social-policy/departments/health
been
learnt
at
the
same
time
as
services-management-centre/work/action-learning-sets.aspx

The Process a simple

version

a) a member of the group outlines their problem / issue

b) then the other members of the group make
suggestions
c) Finally the member of the group whose problem or
issue it is creates an action plan based on the groups
suggestions.
d) Repeat the process for all members of the group.

Often the group will reconvene several times over a

period of time.

Where used and / or links to.

A creative and powerful Problem Solving

technique
Consultancy
Coaching / Mentoring / (Counselling)
Reflective Practice

Guide lines for problem selection for this

practise.

Any problem you wish to solve - but lets avoid

subjects that are of an intimate or personal nature.
Could be something around the following:

Study
Future career

There will be be enough time to cover everybody

this is just a practise session to understand the
procedure.

An example of a problem solving group

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=
F1Ludbz0C18
1.2 and 6.12
Does not follow the exact procedure for
an ALS but is a good illustration of an
effective problem solving group.