Introducing Human Learning Systems
Check back here for updates on when we’re next running one of our free introductory webinars featuring Professor Toby Lowe, the leading researcher behind HLS.
Human learning systems
People working in public service increasingly crave a new approach to navigating the complex issues of the 21st century. Climate change, poverty, inequality, poor health, and outdated infrastructure all require government employees and organisations that partner with governments to adopt new ways of working together and resolving problems.
A new approach to public service
Human Learning Systems is a radically different and research-backed way of resourcing and organising public service. It has been developed based on real-life case studies from across the world and focuses on three key principles:
Being human
The purpose of public service is to support human freedom and flourishing. To respond to each person’s unique context, public service should be bespoke by design, and built on strong relationships and trust.
Enabling continuous learning
Public service should be a process of ongoing exploration and learning: workers and residents exploring and learning together. The primary task of public managers and leaders is to create effective learning environments.
Supporting healthy systems
Outcomes cannot be “delivered” by public service – they are created by whole systems: all the relationships and factors in someone’s life. Outcomes are made by healthy systems – systems in which all the people involved can collaborate and learn together.
“Honestly, working in an human learning systems way feels like a great weight has been lifted off our chest – and this is a reaction we often see in others. So many people know intuitively that our current accepted ways of working don’t work, but they haven’t previously had any language to give expression to this.”
HLS Participant
Getting started with Human Learning Systems
Our half-day workshop will help you explore how to start using a human learning systems approach in your work. We aim for you to leave the session with a clear idea of the next steps you can take.
Becoming a skilled convener
Navigating complex issues involves bringing people together across systems, perspectives, and points of difference. Whatever your role in the system, convening and facilitating groups is a necessary skill. Our course will take your convening skills to the next level.
Mastering Systems Stewardship
What sets systems stewardship apart from traditional public service leadership? How can you apply these principles in your role?
Join our two-day course to explore what becoming a systems steward means for you and leave with a clear, actionable plan tailored to your context.
Talk to us about being a learning partner
Supporting you in applying the Human Learning Systems approach so you can foster continuous learning and experimentation in your work.
Join the conversation
Stay updated on our work, lessons learned, and how you can get involved.
