What is Collaborative Learning?

 

Interaction that facilitates understanding of dynamic complexity by focusing on:

·        Interrelationships

·        Circles of causality

·        Processes, rather than instances

·        Learning

 

 

 

What is Dynamic Complexity?

 

Complexity rooted in relationships within the system.  In this situation actions

·        have different short and long term effects

·        unintended and non-obvious consequences

·        varied impacts at different places in the system

 

 

 

 

 

 

Why Collaborate?

·        Provides opportunities for creative thinking

·        Encourages everyone to participate in decision making

·        Encourages constructive dialogue, discussion, and deliberation

·        Accommodates mutual gain negotiation

·        Addresses procedure and relationship, as well as substance

·        Encourages joint learning

·        Allocates implementation responsibility broadly

 

 

Why Not Collaborate?

·        Expensive

·        Time consuming

·        Requires a minimum level of goodwill

·        Weak approach to power dynamics

·        Must operate in the face of competitive options

 

 

When is Collaborative Learning Inappropriate?

·        Level of distrust prevents honest exchange

·        Power relationships prevent honest exchange

·        Knowledge is insufficient & information is not available

·        Key decision makers refuse to participate

·        Mutual gains are not possible

·        No alternatives exist