Action Learning Sets: A psychological approach

Action Learning Set: A Psychological Approach promotional video was recorded by the Science & Practice Strategy Group of the BPS Division of Occupational Psychology (DOP), in a documentary style format.

The actual Science & Practice event was designed to promote not only the psychological application of 'Action Learning Sets' but to act as a catalyst to promote future events.

An 'Action Learning Set' (ALS) is a structured way of reflecting and learning.

It usually consists of 6-8 people, who commit to work together over a period of time to discuss workplace issues. Set members have an opportunity to introduce a challenge they are facing in the workplace. The Action Learning Set group helps to work on the problem through supportive but challenging questioning, by encouraging members to gain a deeper understanding of the issue. Members then put into practice their solutions and report back to the Action Learning Set group at a follow-up session.

Set meetings are usually self-managed or preferably facilitated by an experienced facilitator.

'Action learning Sets' are becoming hugely popular as they are seen as a cost-effective way of developing people.

The session was championed by DOP (2009) Science & Practice Convener, Kajal Ruparell.

The session was led by Paul Phillips, an Occupational Psychologist & a Leadership & Management Development Specialist with Guest Speaker Antonia Dietmann, DOP (2010) Chair, who spoke about her experiences at the Ministry of Defence (MOD). Tinu Cornish, DOP (2012) Committee Member & Occupational Psychologist provided insightful comments as an audience member.

The focus for the (ALS) event was on the following:
•Background and theoretical model behind Action Learning
•Key skills required to facilitate an Action Learning Set
•Practice session

The session also included networking opportunities and light refreshments.

For future events please e-mail [email protected] or contact the DOP's (2012) Science & Practice Strategy Group Convenor, Alan Bourne at [email protected] for further details.