[Ailist] Re: How much theory to give

[Bryan Kidd]

Dear Rob and All

> Obviously we need to calibrate, but thinking is as important as
experiencing
> in the right way.

Rob, you make an extremely important point here.  It is my belief (validated
by a decade of experience) that thinking and experiencing each enhance the
other.  Thinking about concepts helps people understand their experience
(this is not a new idea - see most experiential learning models, e.g. Kolb),
but the reverse is also useful; our experiences help us think (this is also
embedded in most lexperiential learning models, but is often less apparent.)
I've been involved in some programs that either over-emphasise thinking, or
over-emphasise experience.  Striking a balance between the two is essential
for changed behaviour.  Perhaps this explains why some overly-academic
programs are difficult to transfer to daily activities, and why some
overly-experiential programs fail to have a lasting impact.

In sum, I guess I am agreeing with Rob ("It depends") while adding that the
balance needs to be thoughtfully designed and adapted following feedback (a
combination of thinking and experience.)

Regards.

Bryan Kidd, CEO
Thoughtful Leadership.  Resources for new approaches to leadership!
www.thoughtfulleadership.com