Wheeler Interviews Joe Raelin on Leadership

Summary

In this discussion, experts explore the future of learning and work, highlighting the evolving nature of education and leadership. They emphasize the growing importance of work-based learning, informal knowledge acquisition, and the potential return of apprenticeship models. The conversation touches on the balance between cognitive learning and practical experience, the limitations of traditional classroom settings, and the role of mentorship. They also consider how virtual learning might complement real-world practice and the sociological shifts in how younger generations engage with technology for education and work.

Takeaways

• 🧑‍🏫 Work-based learning, akin to old-school on-the-job training, is poised for a comeback as a core learning method.
• 🧠 Learning is not just about acquiring knowledge from books; it also happens during the practice of a task, developing meta-skills and creativity.
• 📚 There needs to be a balance between academic/cognitive learning and hands-on, practical experiences to truly grasp complex skills.
• 👩‍🏫 The concept of generic competencies for training employees is limited; true learning often arises organically from direct work experience.
• 🔧 A hybrid of structured academic learning with mentorship/apprenticeship models could be the future of education in corporate environments.
• 👨‍🏫 Mentorship should focus on engagement and dialogue, not just storytelling or sharing expertise. The mentor’s role is to be a listener and facilitator.
• 💡 The internet is a great resource for information, but deeper learning, reflection, and application still require personal interaction and practice.
• 🎓 The apprenticeship model is likely to reemerge in corporate training, offering real-time, practice-based learning environments.
• 💬 Online learning and virtual universities are gaining popularity, but replicating face-to-face, dialogic interaction in a virtual space is still a challenge.
• 🌍 Social networks and relational aspects of work are becoming more important, influencing how we view both careers and learning.

Q & A

What is the primary focus of the conversation?

The conversation primarily focuses on the future of learning and education, particularly in the context of workforce development, leadership, and work-based learning models.

How does the speaker view the future of learning?

The speaker believes that learning will shift toward more work-based or on-the-job learning (OJT), with an emphasis on practical, experiential learning rather than purely academic or classroom-based methods.

What is the role of informal learning in the speaker's perspective?

The speaker views informal learning as essential, arguing that knowledge often arises through practical engagement and problem-solving rather than from formal instruction alone.

How does the speaker differentiate between formal and informal learning?

Formal learning is seen as structured, classroom-based, and cognitive, whereas informal learning arises from the practice of work itself, helping learners deal with 'imponderables' or challenges encountered during real-world tasks.

What concerns do some people have about informal learning models?

Some people worry that informal learning alone might not be enough to build necessary skills and that new employees might need structured mentorship or formal training to properly learn how to navigate workplace challenges.

What does the speaker believe is key to sustainable learning?

The speaker believes that sustainable learning comes from a combination of academic instruction and hands-on, practical experience, with mentorship playing a critical role in helping learners navigate complex situations.

What is the speaker's view on the corporate competency model?

The speaker is skeptical about the corporate focus on generic competencies, arguing that true expertise and skill development come from real-world, contextual experience rather than from a predefined set of competencies.

How does the speaker propose improving mentorship in the workplace?

The speaker advocates for a model where mentors engage more through active listening and dialogue rather than simply sharing their experiences or 'war stories.' This helps mentees develop their own critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

How does the speaker feel about virtual and online learning?

The speaker sees virtual and online learning as having potential, especially in bringing together people from different cultures and societies. However, they believe these platforms still need to evolve to replicate the richness of in-person dialogue and hands-on experience.

What is the co-op program, and why does the speaker support it?

A co-op program combines academic learning with practical, work-based experience by alternating between classroom studies and real job placements. The speaker supports this model because it allows students to apply their learning in real-world settings, making their education more relevant and impactful.