Action Learning and Action Research

Abstract

What can be gained by making a distinction between action learning and action research? The question is more than rhetorical. It can make a world of difference which approach you use, depending on your purpose. Further, if you should choose action learning, it can make a world of difference which particular “brand” you select, depending on how you view human beings and how comfortable you are with the assumption that they have capacities to self-direct their learning and their work. My contention is that action learning and action research are not identical, not even “blood brothers” — if for no other reason than that they spring from different origins and traditions. They do not share the same orientation towards the world. Having had “classic” experiences of both, I conclude that the difference between them is more significant than most people realize, and that misperceptions diminish the strengths of each.