Individual Learning Strategies: Learning Groups (Teams)

Learning Groups (or teams) are gatherings of individuals who meet to focus on their own learning and development in a particular interest area such as information technology, public speaking, or career paths.

	To provide a mechanism for obtaining knowledge and skills when there is no formal training available in a particular area.
	When the environment or technology is changing so rapidly that there is no time to develop a formal training program.
	To reinforce learning through the ongoing peer support provided by regular learning team meetings.

	Initiate a Learning Group if you feel there is a need or you have an interest in a particular area.
	Hold the Learning Group meetings during times when people are more likely to attend (e.g., lunchtime meetings or early morning meetings).
	Making the learning available to group members through newsletters, e-mail messages, etc.
	Consider using technology to augment face-to-face meetings.

As described below, learning strategies are often used in combination with one another or may be closely linked to one another.

Parallel Learning Structures: Parallel Learning Structures are formal mechanisms used to effect change and innovation in the organization. A Learning Group is a less formal mechanism that focuses on individual learning.

Meetings: Meetings are venues for a variety of activities, one of which is to serve as a forum to exchange knowledge and enhance learning. Learning Groups use meetings to support individual growth and learning.

Department of Defense (DoD)

DoD sponsors lunchtime Learning Groups that meet monthly on topics such as using the Internet and training technologies. Other agency personnel, vendors, or college faculty members are invited to make presentations and to demonstrate the various technologies.

Health Care Finance Administration (HCFA)

A Learning Group at HCFA meets to learn about the field of human resource management. The group is open to all employees who have an interest in this area.

Web Resources

FastCompany provides potential topic areas that may be of interest to Learning Groups.

8 Principles for Learning that should be considered by Learning Groups.

Following are links to the other Individual Learning Strategies:

	Job Rotations
	Special Assignments
	Coaching
	Mentoring
	Individual Development Plan
	Manager as Teacher
	Self-Development