Embracing the Challenge of Workplace Learning - Reflections on our Webinar

“Learning is such a very, very personal thing.” This powerful statement encapsulates the essence of navigating the complexities of workplace learning, especially during tough times.

In our recent webinar Rachel Morris and Ian Temple explored the journey of learning in the workplace, and uncovered how to facilitate growth in ourselves and others, even when the going gets tough. Here are some further insights and reflections from that fascinating conversation.

The Core of Workplace Learning

The discussion opened with a focus on how to succeed when workplace learning becomes challenging. Rachel emphasised that learning is often most profound during difficult periods. The fragility of our current world, coupled with rapid changes, means that employees must adapt and acquire new skills quickly. This urgency can lead to significant learning opportunities, albeit under stressful conditions.

Understanding the Learning Process

To better understand the learning journey, Rachel and Ian considered the four quadrants model. This framework outlines four stages of learning, starting from a state of “unconscious incompetence” where individuals are unaware of their lack of skills. This blissful ignorance can be comforting, but it does not foster growth. The transition to the next stage, “conscious incompetence,” occurs when individuals become aware of their deficiencies. This awareness can be uncomfortable, as it often brings feelings of inadequacy and stress. However, it is a necessary part of the growth process.

Carl Jung noted, “If we don’t make the unconscious conscious, we accept our behaviours as a fact of life,” underscoring the importance of recognising our limitations as a precursor to improvement.

The Journey from Q1 to Q2

The journey from Q1 to Q2 is pivotal. It is marked by a significant shift in awareness. As individuals recognise what they do not know, they often experience heightened anxiety. Learners should be encouraged to reflect upon personal experiences during such transitions, as this discomfort is part of the learning curve.

This stage is crucial because it signals that progress is possible. Although it may be tough to witness someone struggling through this phase, it is often a sign that they are on the verge of significant growth.

Building the Learning Ladder

Transitioning into the next stage of learning, the journey from Q2 to Q3, involves climbing a metaphorical ladder. This ladder represents the increasing levels of competence. The key takeaway here is that while leaders can provide the resources and support, it is ultimately up to the individual to climb the ladder.

“Our responsibility is to build the ladder, but they have to climb it,” as Rachel emphasises. This analogy serves as a reminder that personal initiative is essential for growth.

Setting Goals for Success

For learners to ascend this ladder effectively, they need clear goals to work towards. The importance of having a focused area for development cannot be overstated. Clarity on what success looks like is crucial. As leaders, it is our responsibility to help individuals visualise their goals and what achieving them entails.

The Role of Mistakes in Learning

Mistakes are an inevitable part of the learning process. Rachel and Ian discussed the fear associated with allowing others to make mistakes. However, these missteps are often the most valuable learning experiences.

“We need to allow those moments, to reflect and capture progress, to talk about what’s working and what’s not,” This reflection not only aids personal growth but also strengthens team dynamics.

The Balance of Support and Challenge

As leaders, we often grapple with the instinct to protect our team members from failure. However, Ian believes that experiencing challenges is essential for true learning.

“We hold the people with the most scars on their back in really high esteem”

The scars we bear from our struggles often become badges of honour, signifying our resilience, our ability to overcome adversity and our growth.

Creating a Supportive Learning Environment

To foster an environment conducive to learning, leaders must strike a balance between providing support and allowing autonomy. This can be particularly challenging when team members are navigating their personal learning journeys.

Ian emphasised the importance of being present and invested in the learning process. “If people see you investing that time, they really do value it,” he noted, highlighting the trust that can be built through genuine engagement.

Navigating the Challenges of Learning

The conversation shifted to the challenges faced by both learners and leaders during tough times. Rachel and Ian shared insights on how to manage these challenges effectively. For instance, recognising when a task may be too overwhelming for someone and adjusting expectations accordingly can help maintain morale and motivation.

“It’s a judgment call,”  Ian noted, emphasising the requirement of leaders to be attuned to their team’s needs. This awareness can make all the difference in creating a supportive learning environment.

The Importance of Reflection

Reflection is a critical component of the learning process. In her work Rachel always encourages leaders to facilitate discussions that allow team members to express their feelings and experiences. This practice not only aids in personal development but also contributes to a culture of openness and collaboration.

“It’s about acknowledging the journey,” Rachel believes, reinforcing the significance of recognising progress and growth.

The Final Steps on the Learning Ladder

As individuals move towards the final stages of the learning process, they often experience a surge in confidence and motivation. Rachel describes this transformation as a shift from feeling constrained to feeling empowered.

“It’s like something goes from feeling quite tight and small to feeling much bigger,” she explains. This expansion signifies not only personal growth but also the potential for future learning experiences.

Embracing the Learning Journey

At the end of this exploration of workplace learning, the main takeaway is clear: learning is a deeply personal journey that requires patience, support, and the willingness to embrace challenges. By fostering an environment that encourages growth through mistakes and reflection, leaders can help their teams navigate the complexities of learning effectively.

Ultimately, the goal is to empower individuals to take ownership of their learning journeys, climb their ladders, and emerge stronger and more capable. The journey may be tough, but the rewards are invaluable.