Learning to Make a Difference

Today, more people want to know how to make a meaningful difference to what they care about. But for that, traditional approaches to learning often fall short. In this book, we offer a theoretical and practical way forward. We introduce the concept of social learning spaces for developing both new capabilities and a sense of agency. We provide a rich framework for focusing on the value of social learning spaces: how to generate this value, monitor it, and learn iteratively through the process. The book is a useful extension and refinement of 'communities of practice' for those familiar with the theory. For those who are not, the chapters will lay out a new way to approach learning. This volume is written to serve the needs of readers across fields, including researchers, educators, and leaders in business, government, healthcare, and international development.

'This book is written by two authors, whom I regard as the internationally most competent specialists in the field of adults' learning for professional practice!' Knud Illeris, author of How We Learn and editor of Contemporary Theories of Learning, 'Whether you are a teacher looking for new ideas or a social justice activist facilitating lifelong learning, this book provides the theory, and more importantly, the practice of social learning. With examples, footnotes, and reflection summaries, the concept of social learning is made accessible to all.' Malathi Raghavan, Clinical Associate Professor and Director, Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine, USA, 'Another tour de force by the authors, marking the expansion of their seminal work in COPs. This work provides for a broader impact through the development of practical concepts in social learning. It is a must-read for all of us who are seeking to liberate the potential of organizations and teams.' Michael Fung-Kee-Fung, Medical Director Champlain of the Regional Cancer Program and Professor of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Surgery, University of Ottawa, Canada, 'What this book offers is a language to talk about, reflect on, and be more intentional about, enabling learning that happens in interactions between people … For those with a scholarly interest in social learning this is … a must-read.' Dirk Roux, SAJS Issue

Etienne Wenger-Trayner is a social learning theorist and consultant. He is known for his seminal work on communities of practice, which has influenced both practice and theory across disciplines. One of the most cited authors in the social sciences, he is a visiting 'professorial fellow' at the University of Brighton, UK. Beverly Wenger-Trayner, still an activist at heart for equitable development, is a social learning theorist and consultant known for her work with international organizations. Her expertise encompasses cross-boundary processes, the use of new technologies, designing and facilitating social learning strategies, and coaching social learning leaders in complex situations.