SV: OST for learning only

[Thomas Herrmann]

Hi John
I always have learning as one of the main objectives with OST. Learning in
many ways. Another objective is to work with the theme in question. It
rarely focuses on learning purely. Learning may be seen as a byproduct of
OST, although an important one! I try to formulate the theme towards an
action of some sort - just as I understand you do. The action steps decided
on are usually based on the learning in the past and in the OST-meeting.
Greetings Thomas
  -----Ursprungligt meddelande-----
  Från: OSLIST [mailto:OSLIST at LISTSERV.BOISESTATE.EDU]För John Wilson
  Skickat: den 4 december 2000 14:27
  Till: OSLIST at LISTSERV.BOISESTATE.EDU
  Ämne: OST for learning only


  Dear Friends

  I have just joined the OS list and am thoroughly enjoying working my way
through the archives, what rich veins of experience in there. I am also a
relative novice to running Open Space Technology events.

  Yesterday there was a call for articles on experiences with Open Space for
an online newsletter. I have written one on an experience I had in Zambia.
When I had written it I suddenly recalled having read somewhere that Open
Space Technology workshops are not appropriate just for learning purposes. I
cannot recall where I read this (and maybe I'm imagining it).

  With some others I was responsible for setting up a regional association
of local non-governemnt organisations (NGOs) in east and southern Africa.
The aim of the association is to promote learning and networking between
members (who tend to work in isolation). There are various ways in which
this is happening, one of which is for practitioners to come toegether and
share with each other at workshops. These workshops are based on a theme
such as "setting up participatory monitoring systems" or "Be a better
facilitator" or "fundraising". The workshops have proved to be times of rich
learning between participants. I can see Open Space being used to make this
experience a whole lot richer. But the aim would be purley for learning -
though at the end individuals may develop their own action plans in terms of
what they would do differently. Does anyone have a comment on this? Is there
a problem using Open Space Technology purely for learning purposes?

  (I also see the Assocaiton using Open Space Technology as an effective way
to run its Biennial General Meeting - this would not be just for learning
but also for action into the future for the association).

  With best wishes

  John Wilson.
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