Words by Rachel

There is little doubt about the utility of traditional learning methods, such as lecturing and workshops, and their value when building a community of practice. But, we’re seeing new ways to learn collaboratively unfolding all around us and cannot help but join the movement. 

After all, collaboration is at the heart of how we work at Tamarack. So, when we convened with community leaders at the 2007 Communities Collaborating Institute, we felt the need to harvest the power of our growing learning community by tapping into each other’s knowledge base and experience.  

Learning circles are a great way to connect with others on key issues in an intimate and participatory setting. In small groups, we gather each month by telephone and online to share our thoughts, experiences, questions and resources related to the issue.  

Some learning circles are using the Peer Input Process, while others are benefiting from a workshop format. Most are connecting in an online community to help collect valuable ideas and resources.  

According to Andrée Iffrig, what can make or break this type of peer learning is facilitation. What kind of host or facilitator is ideal to ensuring a successful learning circle, or does peer learning rely on a leader or the participants?  

In a 2007 Tamarack tele-learning event, communities of practice expert Etienne Wenger advocated for the natural evolution of these types of groups. He believes that you can design for a community of practice, but you cannot design a community of practice. While some communities may die if they are not nurtured, we must be careful not to over nurture. 

We’re still exploring the possibilities of learning in this way, and we’re always open to suggestions. Have you participated in a learning circle? Share your experience by emailing me.

Related Links:

• Why give learning circles a chance? 
• Brenda considers the role of technology in small groups 
• What is the Peer Input Process?
• Learning circles to the rescue for broken governance board 

Tamarack's Learning Circles’ Online Communities:

• Collaborative Governance 
• Poverty Reduction & Prosperity Enhancement  
• Collaborative, Transformational Learning 
• Shared Space: The Communities Agenda 
• Collaboration Across Communities of Interest