Cultivating space to grow...

"Gardens, scholars say, are the first sign of commitment to a community. When people plant they are saying let's stay here. And by their connection to the land, they are connected to one another."
-Anne Raver

What is a Creative Learning Group?

Change yourself to change your organization...

    Today's knowledge society requires that organizations pay attention to knowledge workers and the transfer of knowledge. At NASA Goddard Space Flight Center we are involved with some exciting knowledge management initiatives called creative learning groups also known as communities of practice. A creative learning group is a small group of talented people with complimentary skills and experience who commit to a common purpose, utilize each other's gifts and talents, and hold each other mutually accountable for making things happen. They are involved in a self-managed process of action learning.

    One of the groups was asked to capture the essence of what it is like to be in our creative learning environment, they came up with the phrase "space to grow." Such a group is organic, they grow and thrive as people become more aware of one another and learn from each other.

    The groups require a coach who creates the space for focus and dialogue. "To make them really valuable, they need to be nurtured, cared for and legitimated. They need a very human touch."
- Richard McDermott

What are the Benefits?

    Creative Learning Groups provide a means to foster learning, enhance emotional fitness, create new intellectual knowledge, identify best practices, share resources, strengthen trust,cultivate a diverse community, and stimulate innovation.

    Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi (pronounced "chick sent me high") studies creative people, relationships, and the quality of life at work. He writes, "Instead of being either extroverts or introverts, such people seem to express both traits in the process of going about their lives. Over and over again creative individuals stress the importance of seeing people, hearing people, exchanging ideas, and getting to know another person's work.

Are You a Good Candidate for a Creative Learning Group?

    Do you possess:

    · A burning desire to grow?

    · A passion for learning?

    · A powerful results orientation?

    · Emotional savvy?

    · A generous spirit?

    · An openness to ideas other than your own?

    · The desire to be part of a community of friendship?

    · The willingness to be introspective?

    · The courage to admit whey you are stuck?

    · The ability to ask for and receive support?