Action Learning Poised for Takeoff

Thursday, May 10, 2007

Action Learning Poised for Takeoff

Action Learning, 1979, Reg Revans

For anyone who has ever sat through a three hour lecture, bored beyond comprehension, and thought to themselves 'there must be a better way,' Reg Revans' learning theory is for you. Revans believed in learning through active collaboration and "doing" things in small groups rather than by passively listening to the "wisdom" of an expert. Instead of lectures and books, Revans expounded upon the insights that could be gained via questioning and critical thinking. His theory eliminated the traditional hierarchies of education (teacher/student, expert/non-expert) and instead focussed on the unique ideas, insights, and innovations that could be garnered from each individual. In this way, no one was held above the rest as an "authority" on a subject. As expected, traditional learning institutions in Revans' home country of Britain did not appreciate his radically different ideas, and for the most part, rejected them during the 1970s.

However, in today's social and business climate of egalitarianism, team-orientation, and instant communication across hierarchical boundaries, Revans' active learning theory could be poised for serious reconsideration, particularly among generation Y-ers. His fundamental idea that one should share failures and weaknesses, as well as strengths and knowledge is very inspiring to a generation that already views "complete privacy" as a rather antiquated value. Leaders are no longer being judged by their stoic veneers of strength and omnipotence, but instead by their ability to admit flaws and acknowledge personal vulnerabilities. In fact, the recent biographical movie "The Queen" is a perfect example of Britains' changing outlook on leadership as it tries to explain why the emotionally open Princess Diana was so beloved while the traditionally detached Queen was despised. This shift in values is prime to support Revans' belief that only through honesty can real learning take place, and real solutions be found.

Sources:

Crainer, Stuart. Active Learning. (2006).The Ultimate Business Library. Capstone Publishing Limited.

the Queen. (2006). Movie. Reference URL: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0436697/