explore · Team Building, Knowledge Sharing · 30–60 min · 6-12 people · medium energy
Learning Circle
A Learning Circle provides structured time for teams to share knowledge, learn new skills, and foster continuous improvement. It creates a safe space for team members to grow together and apply new insights to their work.
When to use Learning Circle
Use this method when you want to encourage continuous learning, improve shared understanding across teams, and address specific challenges or growth areas within the team.
What it solves
Lack of time for learning and development, difficulty sharing knowledge across teams, insufficient application of new knowledge to daily work.
How to run Learning Circle, step by step
- Choose a facilitator and 1-2 presenters to lead the session. (5 min)
- Presenters share their research and insights on the chosen topic, incorporating interactive activities. (20 min)
- Facilitate a Q&A session for participants to ask questions of the presenters. (5 min)
- Guide a discussion, encouraging participants to share their own experiences and expertise. (20 min)
- Allow time for reflection on what was learned and gather ideas for future topics. (5 min)
Materials needed
- Pen
- Paper
- Presentation (optional)
- Conference room or virtual meeting platform
Facilitator tips
- Encourage presenters to interview internal experts to bring in relevant content.
- Set clear ground rules to create a safe and inclusive learning environment.
Common pitfalls
- Discussion stalls out: Prepare open-ended questions to stimulate conversation.
- Participants are not engaged: Incorporate interactive activities and real-world examples.
Variations
- Mentoring Ring: Repeat the learning circle biweekly or monthly with participants from similar seniority levels but different business units.
- Identity-group selection: Focus on building belonging by selecting participants based on identity groups.
Running it online or hybrid
Use virtual whiteboards for brainstorming and screen sharing for presentations. Ensure remote participants can actively engage in discussions.
What it produces
Shared understanding of a specific topic, action items for applying new knowledge, list of future learning topics.
Origin
Adapted from Atlassian — source
Build a session around Learning Circle
METODIC places Learning Circle inside a complete, timed session plan — agenda, worksheets, facilitator guide and slides — matched to your group and goal.