Action Learning has revolutionized the way organizations develop leaders and solve complex problems. Unlike traditional training approaches that separate learning from doing, Action Learning immerses participants in real challenges while simultaneously building their leadership capabilities.
As a certified WIAL (World Institute for Action Learning) practitioner, I have facilitated Action Learning programs across Africa, Europe, and the Middle East. This article shares practical insights on implementing Action Learning effectively.
What is Action Learning?
Action Learning is a structured approach that combines working on real problems with time for reflection on what is being learned. Small groups called "Action Learning sets" work together on important organizational challenges, with a trained coach who helps the group learn from their experience.
The power of Action Learning lies in its dual focus: participants solve actual problems while developing critical leadership skills such as questioning, listening, systems thinking, and collaborative problem-solving.
- Real Problems: Work on actual organizational challenges, not case studies
- Diverse Sets: Groups of 4-8 people with different perspectives and expertise
- Questions Over Answers: Focus on powerful questions rather than quick solutions
- Reflection: Structured time to examine what is being learned
- Coaching: Facilitation by a trained Action Learning coach
- Action: Commitment to implementing solutions and learning from results
The WIAL Approach
The World Institute for Action Learning has developed a rigorous methodology that maximizes learning and problem-solving outcomes. The WIAL approach emphasizes two fundamental questions that coaches use to focus the group: "What are we doing well?" and "What can we do better?"
This focus on continuous improvement creates a safe environment for learning while maintaining high standards for results. Participants consistently report that the skills they develop in Action Learning sets transfer powerfully to their everyday leadership practice.
"Action Learning teaches us that the quality of our questions determines the quality of our solutions. In a complex world, the leaders who ask the best questions will make the best decisions."
Implementing Action Learning in Your Organization
Successfully implementing Action Learning requires careful attention to several factors. First, organizations must identify problems that are genuinely important—challenges where the solution is not obvious and where the stakes are high enough to engage participants fully.
Second, senior leadership must be committed to the process. Action Learning often surfaces insights that challenge existing assumptions and practices. Without leadership support, these insights may not translate into organizational change.
Third, organizations should invest in developing internal Action Learning coaches. While external facilitators can launch programs effectively, long-term sustainability requires internal capability.
Action Learning at BSN Nigeria
At Business School Netherlands International (BSN Nigeria), Action Learning is not just a teaching method—it is the cornerstone of our educational philosophy. Every participant in our programs works on real organizational challenges throughout their studies.
The results speak for themselves: our graduates consistently report that their Action Learning projects have delivered measurable value to their organizations—often far exceeding the cost of their education. More importantly, they describe fundamental shifts in how they approach leadership and problem-solving.
I invite leaders and organizations interested in Action Learning to explore how this powerful methodology might address your development needs. The future belongs to learning leaders, and Action Learning is one of the most effective paths to becoming one.