NCG Learning Community Guidelines

Why Learning Communities or Circles?

NCG's education committee is pioneering a new approach to encourage deeper, more satisfying learning experiences for members. The learning community or circle (LCC) approach is premised on four main beliefs/realizations:

1. Grantmakers, though extremely passionate about what they do, have little, if any, quality time to reflect on their work.
2. The conventional one-time, two-hour NCG program needs to be balanced by the inclusion of a variety of intensive, long-term educational activities.
3. With fewer resources available for education and professional development, NCG needs to be creative as a support structure that builds community and exponentially enhances learning among members in the region.
4. NGG's member surveys confirm that peer learning is a highly coveted commodity.

Because LCC represent a powerful tool for transformative learning, NCG has taken on an active role in promoting, documenting and capturing the learning across LCCs.

Basic Definition:

The learning community or learning circle model is one in which all members of a self-defined "community" of 5-15 people learn from and teach each other. LCCs are about self-direction and improvement. In this approach to knowledge sharing, groups of 5-15 people meet regularly to learn about and discuss issues of importance to them. They learn at their own pace, drawing upon their own experiences and understanding, without a lecturer or expert "running the show." Through the group learning process, a culture of authenticity and openness is created that allows participants to examine their underlying assumptions and beliefs with the intent of advancing common dialogue.

Sessions last about two hours, guided by a facilitator chosen from the group whose role is to keep discussion focused and fair. Typically participants read materials ahead of time to provide them with "raw material" for a grounded and fruitful discussion.

Key defining terms for LCCs:

• Self-directed
• Self-defined
• Action-oriented
• Process of co-creation,
• Opportunity for professional and personal growth.

Getting Started

If you are interested in starting or joining a LCC, please contact CJ Callen, Senior Program Executive at cjcallen@ncg.org or 415.777.5761, ext. 17.