Non‐formal management learning through electronic experiential fiction

Abstract

Purpose -All sectors of the economy have shortfalls in the quantity and quality of management development, but a notably large skills gap is in the not-for-profit sector, compounded by a reluctance among many managers in the sector to engage with learning management skills. The purpose of this paper is to report on a novel approach which has successfully deployed web technology to create a soapopera style of material for the purposes of informal experiential learning for managers in that sector. Design/methodology/approach -An action learning approach was used. Findings -It has proved feasible to deploy the processes and style of soap-opera (continuing drama) to the development of non-formal management development materials. It has also been feasible to find and develop a team of authors with suitable management experience and fiction-writing skills.Research limitations/implications -This is based on a single case study developed in a particular set of circumstances, so its generalisability has not been fully evaluated. Practical implications -Significant appropriate management and technical resources are needed to set up and produce this type of material on a continuing basis. Social implications -Many managers are unable to participate in formal management education, but are hard to reach. Their needs are not simply for information, but also for a sense of a learning community and for engaging material, communicated with some drama and clearly relevant to their everyday experience. Originality/value -The project relates to a unique large-scale initiative to address hard-to-reach groups in need of management development.