The Networked Learning Triad
A structural model for integrating learning and working by connecting three distinct types of social organization. It illustrates how ideas move from broad, unstructured networks into focused communities and finally into structured work environments.
When you need a proven structure for your session
You want to use research-backed approaches to make your sessions more effective.
When designing organizational learning ecosystems or trying to break down silos between formal training and on-the-job performance.
Social Networks: Broad, diverse connections used to seek new ideas and foster innovation through 'weak ties'.
Communities of Practice: Focused groups where trusted relationships allow for filtering ideas and deeper conversations.
Work Teams: Structured, deadline-driven groups where ideas are put into practice and sense-making occurs through execution.
Gives you a tested template to build from.
Facilitators can use this to map out where different types of learning activities should occur. Use social networks for inspiration, communities of practice for peer coaching/mentoring, and work teams for performance-based application.
- 1Start with the phase that resonates most
- 2Adapt the framework to your specific context
- 3Don't try to use everything at once
- 4Iterate based on what works for your group
- Organizational design
- Ecosystem mapping
- Breaking down silos
- Knowledge transfer
- Innovation arises from the diversity of social networks
- Trust is built in communities of practice
- Execution happens in work teams
- Knowledge must flow across all three layers to be effective
- Work teams can become myopic without external network input
- Social networks lack the structure to get specific tasks done
- Communities of practice require a 'half-way space' between formal and informal