What happens to P? Lessons from network action learning research

ABSTRACT

This article explores how P (programmed learning) in Revans’ formula L=P + Q accumulates from one action learning research initiative to another. Drawing on three inter-organizational action learning research initiatives, it shows how the L (learning) from conducting action learning in an initiative in one network built new P on network action learning research which was applied in two subsequent initiatives. The article contributes an understanding of how P accumulates from learning initiative to learning initiative and how its application contributes to the L of actionable knowledge.

KEYWORDS:

• Action learning
• programmed knowledge
• network action learning
• action learning research

Acknowledgment

We acknowledge the support of the European Union for the NALP, CO-IMPROVE AND TRADE-IT projects and European Regional Development Fund through the Ireland-Wales Cooperation programme for Dwr Uisce.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Paul Coughlan

Paul Coughlan is Professor in Operations Management at Trinity Business School, Trinity College Dublin, Ireland. His research explores collaborative strategic improvement of operations through network action learning. He and David Coghlan are co-authors of Collaborative Strategic Improvement through Network Action Learning: The Path to Sustainability (Edward Elgar 2011).

David Coghlan

David Coghlan is Professor and Fellow Emeritus at Trinity Business School, Trinity College Dublin, Ireland. He specialises in organization development, action research, action learning and is active in these communities internationally. His current book is Collaborative Inquiry for Organization Development and Change (Edward Elgar, 2021).