The ALFA programme is structured around the model of the 3 Modes of Action Learning Facilitation developed by Dr Richard Hale. This is based on the original thinking of Professor Reg Revans, founder of Action Learning and the work of Prof Mike Pedler. The article describing the 3 modes, with a case study of how it has worked in client organisations was first published in Training Journal in July 2012 under the title 'Bright Horizons for Action Learning'. Participants on the ALFA programme learn how add value to their organisation's learning agenda by developing their capability in the three modes. This recognition of the three modes of Action Learning Facilitation differentiates the ALFA programme from other action learning 'coaching' programmes. By taking a systems approach we are able to assist in the development of the 'learning organisation' as well as individual facilitators.
“As a business we introduced an action research and action learning approach to help us become an organisation that turns learning into knowledge, skills and abilities to solve our work challenges, deliver business benefit and achieve our strategy. We have established in Bright Horizons what we call the principles of Learning and Leading with Heart: as leaders in our field, we are committed to continuous learning and improvement. We challenge ourselves to ask questions, seek solutions and embrace new ideas. We value reflective practices and create the opportunity to help other functions.
The action learning approach enables us to work in an empowering and collaborative way, working cross functionally and maximising the wealth of experience and knowledge in our organisation. The Action Learning Facilitator Accreditation programme has enabled us to build a team of skilled facilitators acting as advocates and enablers of this action learning approach - the senior team are role-modeling the change we want to see.
Personally I wanted to build my knowledge and skills as an Action Learning Facilitator. I was keen to be part of the senior team who play a crucial role in ‘marketing’ the approach to the business. I believe that in today’s environment an action learning approach has a key role to play in engaging the workforce and creating ownership for learning.
My own Action Learning Facilitator Question has been around engaging action learners virtually and helping them to see the benefits of using our online portal. I have been helping them to see it as an integral way of working and not an ‘add on’ to their working day. The key challenge for me in terms of facilitating style is about finding the balance between directing and facilitating in a supportive way. It calls for the ability to question, listen, challenge and reflect. It demands patience and a sense of timing - judging how and when to move the action learning set on and when to step back and look at the group as a whole.” Helen Mitchell - Learning and Development Manager
“We need to move beyond trying to teach our people. We need to give them a chance to learn. We recognise everyone has potential and brings something different to the table - knowledge and experience is valued with models and the academic piece coming after. The Action Learning Facilitator Accreditation programme enables us to develop the capability to learn and tackle real life business challenges and to move from just discussion to action and learning.
It has given me the opportunity to think differently about how I learn whilst at the same time tackling real business issues. It is different from the taught, case study approach where qualifications are delivered by ‘experts’. It turns the old model of learning on its head. I think businesses today cannot try to deal with issues as they have done in the past - business challenges today require people to be much more agile, flexible, fluid and dynamic. Having the ‘expert consultant’ come in and tell you what you should be doing doesn’t really work - you need the buy-in of the organisation and the people.
I definitely was out of my comfort zone many times on the ALFA programme. However if you trust in the process and are open to learning it is very rewarding. There is no one right answer to business challenges, they are all different and Action Learning Facilitators enable groups of people to learn and find the answers that are right for them in a collaborative way. I have realised action learning facilitators need the ability to listen, to be inclusive and committed to making a difference without being judgemental.” Sharon Williams, Director of Human Resources