Learning Labs

We don’t do big, whole-scale change – we know those efforts rarely work. Our approach is based on co-designing small iterative experiments to create cultural change that sticks. Together we go to where the tensions are and where you have the desire and energy to improve.

Based on the evidence that individuals will invest in what they care about most, our learning lab approach puts each individual in control of their learning to create a thriving, regenerative culture.

What is a learning lab?

It’s a container which provides a safe space for personal and team development. It’s a facilitated programme co-designed with the participants. It’s led by the group so we don’t know what’s going to come up but we are well-placed to support and guide you through the experiments we create together. The main thread throughout learning labs is reflecting on our way of being, with our self and with others.

We usually recommend an 8 week starter lab, depending on your organisational needs. Each learning lab contributes to a cultural knowledge base of experiments and their impact. Learning Labs can loop around with less support from us over time.

It’s not just the experiments, the learning lab process itself is a key part of the learning and encourages self-directed learning, agency and autonomy.

What’s the process?

There are 4 stages to a lab: relating, co-designing, experimenting and reflecting. Throughout the process, as much as possible is self-led. The bulk of the time is spent in the experimentation stage which is all about real life practice. This is all within a wrapper of understanding our way of ‘being’ through relating and reflecting. It’s this powerful combination which is the key to impactful learning and inner development. 

FAQs

We already know what topic we want to explore

Great! The Learning Lab approach enables you to dig into that topic and understand more about any triggers and where there’s energy to experiment and desire to learn.

Who can take part?

Anyone. It can be everyone in a team or a selection of people organisation wide. As long as they are invited, rather than allocated, and want to take part.

How do we measure impact?

We use our key development index to assess individual inner development and the groups progress towards a thriving, regenerative culture.

How is this any different to other training?

The learning Lab concept is distinctly not about training or acquiring measurable skills. Rather the focus is completely on the learners’ own learning, re-awakening the curiosity and creativity innate in every human being (but often stifled by our school and work environment). It centres around ‘social’ skills which can only be learned WITH others, through practice, in community.  The Learning Labs are closely related and aligned to the United Nations’ Inner Development Goals (IDG).

How can a learning lab be set up?

A learning lab can be run online or in person.  It usually starts with one or two ‘teams’ or communities running a starter lab. If successful, this can be expanded in several ways, such as the same team(s) running a second lab, or new teams running the same labs.  This forms the basis to something akin to a Learning Lab Centre.  The Learning Labs are completely customisable to clients’ needs.

How do I learn more?

We’re happy to offer a free, no obligation, consultation if you want to improve the culture of your organisation.