Conversation as Experiential Learning

Abstract

This article proposes a framework relevant to the continuous learning of individuals and organizations. Drawing from the theory of experiential learning, the article proposes conversational learning as the experiential learning process occurring in conversation as learners construct meaning from their experiences. A theoretical framework based on five process dialectics is proposed here as the foundational underpinning of conversational learning. The five dialectics-apprehension and comprehension; reflection and action; epistemological discourse and ontological recourse; individuality and relationality; status and solidarity-are elaborated. As participants engage in conversation by embracing the differences across these dialectics, the boundaries of the dialectics open a conversational space. Attending to this conversational space enables those in the conversation to remain engaged with each other so that differing perspectives can catalyze learning experientially and promote individual learning and organizational learning.Members of an executive management team have been working for about a year to learn how to collaborate more productively as a team. Over the year, it becomes increasingly clear that without major changes in the company's direction or dramatic improvements in the economy, the future does not look good for their company. At their last meeting the chair of the executive management team made a bold proposal that, if adopted, will take the company in vastly new directions in an attempt to head off the company's financial problems. The team is now faced with a major decision. Several people on the team are in favor of this bold initiative, which seems irresponsible to one team member, who wants to postpone the decision thinking that the economy may improve without such risks. Another team member suggests that less dramatic changes are needed now. This decision presents the team with their first substantial test to gauge the progress they have made in their efforts to learn how to work together more effectively as a team. Downloaded from As you read this scenario, what comes to your mind? What are the 'next steps' you would probably want to take if you were a member of this executive management team? Are there clear answers? From your perspective, is there one path to resolution, one truth? Would conversations play a role in next steps?While individual responses about next steps are likely to vary appreciably, most people would agree that conversations play a major role in the decision-making process. If candid and respectful conversations are a well-established norm for the team, it is more likely that people can begin to understand each other's perspectives somewhat more easily. If frequent, candid conversations are more of an anomaly, the impact can be dramatically different. What contributes to conversations that offer ongoing opportunities for seeing perspectives not imagined before and for learning from each other? If people can share and learn from each other's experiences, their decisions may ...

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