Collective Learning for Transformational Change: A Guide to Collaborative Action (Earthscan) - Hardcover

‘This "Guide to Collaborative Action" is a systematic and accessible resource – providing direction and inspiration for current and future change agents. Decades of experience have been synthesized in an innovative, integrative and invaluable guide that opens new and creative pathways toward transformational change.’ – Margot Parkes, Professor, University of Northern British Columbia, Canada and President, International Association for Ecology & Health

‘The Collective Social Learning process is simply outstanding. We have found that the framework energises participants, leads to individual and collective action and is transformative. Collective learning has become one of our key change processes in our city’s sustainability journey. We have also used the guide to conduct collective learning programs around Australia, and in the USA, New Guinea and Ethiopia.’ – Greg Bruce, Executive Manager, Integrated Sustainability Services, Townsville City Council, Queensland, Australia

‘As a consultant in the field of international development, I highly recommend this book for everyone who is facilitating intentional transformational change. Based on concepts of collective learning, it brings together clear exercises and an A-Z of essential tools. The many case studies demonstrate how the collective learning spiral can be a vehicle for transformational change in a wide range of cultures.’ – Sara Cummings, International consultant, Integrated Knowledge Management Emergent, a European Aid Development Initiative and Editor, Knowledge Management for Development Journal

The drive for change has informed human endeavour throughout history. From fields to factories to offices, people have always asked how to make things better. This innovative book offers a step by step guide for recognising the need for transformational change and kick-starting a course of implementation that leads to the creation of a productive, just and sustainable future for the given community. Drawing on over 300 cases of transformational change planned-for and supported through the process of collective learning, the book shows how a collective learning model based on open learning among diverse interests can improve communication and achieve lasting system change.

Part one of the book outlines the theory and practice of collective learning, drawing on the experiential learning cycle developed by David Kolb. The practice follows the rules of open space learning, dialogue and valuing diversity and is flexible, allowing adaptation to different situations. Case studies in Part two provide examples of collective learning leading to transformational change in a wide range of contexts, from cities to councils to organisations. Part three offers thirty-three activities on which the programme designers can draw in the course of guiding transformational change, from team building, to community development, monitoring, evaluation and cross-cultural learning

This guidebook differs from the traditional management of change. Not only does the process begin with sharing ideals, only later proceeding to implementation, but it also actively harnesses the full set of interests in planning direct action, seeking constructive collaboration not consensus. This groundbreaking guidebook is designed to be fun, accessible and engaging for both students and professionals in the fields of administration and governance.