Understanding Action Learning

O'Neil (Teachers College, Columbia U.), who is associated with a firm that specializes in action technologies, and Marsick (adult and organizational learning, Teachers College, Columbia U.) explain how to use Action Learning in organizations wishing to improve learning on the job. They detail four designs (tacit, scientific, critically reflective, and experiential); how to choose and implement an approach; and the role of the coach. Evaluation is also discussed. Examples from companies such as Pfizer, Volvo, and Chubb are incorporated, as are tools and templates. The book is mainly aimed at learning and organization development specialists, but also executives and other leaders, managers, coaches and consultants, and teachers of work-based learning, human resources development, and organizational development. Annotation c2008 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

Judy O'Neil, Ed.D., M.A. (Warwick, RI) is on the adjunct faculty at Teachers College, Columbia University. Victoria J. Marsick, Ph.D. (New York, NY) is professor of education in the Adult Learning and Leadership program at Teachers College.