Using Formal Training to Strengthen Informal Learning Networks Bryan Hopkins

Edge of chaos Why strengthen informal learning networks? Operational environment

What I did Surveyed 22 workshop events in humanitarian and development sector (183 responses (37%), 41 nationalities) Examined who knew who before and after attending workshops Learnt about networking after the workshop Investigated likely factors influencing networking

Before and after – social network analysis Before Density: After Density: The spirit was willing, but the flesh was weak

Influencing factors Age and gender – no difference noted Individualism – slight negative correlation (-0.235) Trust generated some correlation (0.634) Reflective learning generated some correlation (0.657) Encouragement – no correlation

So what might this tell us? Informal learning vitally important … but neglected by “Training” Conventional evaluation frameworks too limited in what they measure Encouragement not enough; real support needed Social learning can bring rewards in promoting informal learning networks ’Edge of chaos’ Organisational learning Organisational effectiveness Support available Strength of learning networks Social, reflective learning Trust Better workshop design

Thank you