The Power of Experiential Learning
Training is expensive. It costs money and time. A lot of money. And a lot of time. If the lessons taught in training actually grew roots in your organization, it would be worth it. There would be no hesitation to continue to sign up for leadership training. But you know that is not what usually happens. How many binders and strategic plan outlines are currently on your shelf right now? Too many. It’s time to get real.
Getting Real
Our coaching-facilitation style at Sojourn Partners is different. We work with you to understand the impetus behind what is happening in your organization, and then help you walk through real solutions. That’s right. Real life application on your real problems. While working with us, you will be applying proven strategies to your own current issues and scenarios. When you apply it, it sticks. This is the power of experiential learning. Once you’ve got it, you’ve got it for good, and can use it in the future as just one of the tools in your arsenal of problem-solving skills.
Theory vs. Real Life Application
Leadership theory gives us a deeper understanding of why a particular strategy will work and can help to identify specific scenarios where the theory can be applied. But the knowledge of how to apply the theory eludes many. Using the theory in practice, over and over, develops a level of comfort, confidence, and connection that makes it about as real as it can get. Both theory and practice are crucial.
“Theoretical knowledge and practical knowledge are like two sides of the coin, both are equally important. It is necessary to understand both the ends of the spectrum” (Ramnani, n.d.).
Russ Ouellette, President of Sojourn Partners, says, “No hypotheticals. We work a real situation right here. Participants do not need to worry about feeling vulnerable. It’s ok to be vulnerable. That is where the real learning starts”.
Problems sometimes feel overwhelming, but, “We break everything down so participants can process in smaller doses. Then we do a deep dive, a little at a time, and create space so people can process. It’s theory-applied,” says Heather Ramsey, Managing Partner of Sojourn Partners. “This is why Sojourn is different.”
“Knowing is not enough; we must apply. Willing is not enough; we must do.” – Goethe.
It’s time to get real. Learn more about our leadership development programs here.
Reference:
Ramnani, M.V. (n.d.). Theoretical knowledge vs practical application. Vivekanand Education Society Institute of Management. Retrieved from https://www.vesim.ves.ac.in/vesimblog/student-blog/185-theoretical-knowledge-vs-practical-application.html