Becoming an Action Learning Facilitator
Action Learning thrives on the skill and insight of its facilitators. These individuals guide teams through a structured process of inquiry, reflection, and action, ensuring that discussions remain focused, productive, and aligned with organisational goals.
Interestingly, they are there to oversee and guide...not to be the chief interrogator or coach which means it is a different skill set needed than perhaps the "normal" facilitator.
Here, we explore the unique role of Action Learning Facilitators, exploring their impact within sets and the broader organisation. We also outline how to become an accredited facilitator and how organisations can embed this expertise to drive cultural change.
The Role of the Action Learning Facilitator
The Action Learning Facilitator serves as both a guide and a catalyst within the process.
Their primary responsibilities include creating a safe and open environment, maintaining focus on inquiry rather than solutions, and encouraging participants to reflect deeply on their assumptions and actions.
In this way, facilitators share much in common with team coaches, who similarly support groups in exploring dynamics, setting goals, and navigating challenges.
Key parallels between Action Learning facilitation and team coaching include:
- Creating Psychological Safety: Facilitators ensure that all voices are heard and valued, laying the foundation for honest dialogue and innovative thinking.
- Balancing Process and Outcomes: While keeping the group focused on its goals, facilitators remain flexible, allowing the process to evolve as needed.
- Encouraging Ownership: Facilitators help participants take responsibility for their learning and the outcomes of their actions.
By blending these skills with a deep understanding of the Action Learning methodology, facilitators play a crucial role in driving meaningful outcomes within sets and fostering a culture of collaboration and accountability across the organisation.
How to Become an Action Learning Facilitator
Becoming an Action Learning Facilitator requires a combination of training, practice, and organisational support. Here’s how to start:
- Learn from the Best: Seek out accredited training programmes offered by reputable organisations. These courses provide the theoretical foundation and practical tools needed to facilitate effectively. Choose programmes that include real-world practice opportunities and feedback from experienced trainers.
- Get Organisational Buy-In: Facilitation is most effective when it’s embedded within an organisational context. Work with leadership to ensure that the value of Action Learning is recognised and supported at all levels.
- Build a Cohort: Encourage multiple colleagues to pursue accreditation simultaneously. This approach not only reduces the sense of isolation but also creates a network of skilled facilitators who can support one another and contribute to a broader cultural shift within the organisation.
- Practise, Reflect, Repeat: Facilitation is a skill that improves with experience. Start with smaller, less complex sets, and use each session as an opportunity to refine your approach. Regular reflection and feedback from peers are essential for growth.
Creating a Culture Shift Through Facilitation
When multiple people within an organisation are trained as Action Learning Facilitators, the impact extends far beyond individual sets. A critical mass of facilitators can:
- Embed Inquiry into Daily Practices: Facilitation skills can be applied in meetings, team discussions, and strategic planning sessions, fostering a culture of curiosity and collaboration.
- Drive Continuous Improvement: With facilitators championing reflective practices, organisations are better equipped to adapt and evolve in response to challenges.
- Strengthen Leadership Development: Facilitators often become role models for effective communication and leadership, inspiring others to adopt similar approaches.
To maximise these benefits, organisations should prioritise facilitator training as part of their leadership development strategy, ensuring that facilitation becomes a core competency across the organisation.
The role of the Action Learning Facilitator is pivotal in unlocking the full potential of the methodology. By guiding teams through inquiry, reflection, and action, facilitators not only drive meaningful outcomes within sets but also contribute to a culture of collaboration and accountability.
For organisations, investing in facilitator training—and encouraging a cohort approach—is a strategic move that fosters continuous improvement and long-term success. Start your journey today and empower your teams to achieve more through Action Learning.
To get a trained action learning facilitator into your organisation, or to set up a programme to build in-house capacity on Action Learning - Contact Our Partner - Rewired Work
