Accelerated Action Learning: Using a Hands-on Talent Development Strategy to Solve Problems, Innovate Solutions, and Develop People

In a knowledge-based society, people should not simply collect knowledge but should utilize and apply it to solve a problem. Action learning makes organizational members learn while solving real problems in the workplace. However, traditional action learning might not be effective for rapidly changing environments, because it is typically a process that requires substantial time. Therefore, this book provides a guideline on how to apply action learning quickly in workplaces—especially in virtual settings.

Action learning allows the organization to develop people while, at the same time, getting work done. It is an alternative to classroom-based and online learning programs. In addition, it can also be an alternative to the instructional systems design (ISD) model or the successive approximation model (SAM) as a means of developing planned instruction if used for that purpose. Action learning can be an effective tool for Web 2.0 learning. Many organizations are now using self-directed teams and other team formats for work. It makes sense to revisit planned on-the-job training and learning with an emphasis on teams. Action learning is a process involving a small group with facilitators and action-learning process managers, so it is one of the best options for team-based problem-solving.

This book provides real action learning cases. There are needs that have emerged in these post-pandemic times. There is a need to explain how action learning can be applied to various settings, issues, and challenges. Since COVID-19 occurred, many people must work in virtual or hybrid settings. This book gives trainers—who could be HR managers, operating managers, or learning and development professionals—guidelines that can be used in virtual settings to meet the new needs.

Essentially, this book is written for team facilitators, supervisors, managers, or team members who wish to plan action-oriented, problem-based, and work-related learning experiences in real time. Because many action-learning books are written for an academic audience, it is not easy to put action learning into practice. Therefore, the goal of this book is to provide guidelines on how action learning starts, what basic principles should be considered, and what tools and techniques are needed for rapid action learning. The book is intended to be a primer on how to facilitate a planned learning project in a team or workgroup.