The 3A Learning® Process
Empowering High Impact Learning that produces documented, sustainable results
Learning is change — change is learning. Today’s competitive advantage goes to organizations that can learn and adapt faster. The Life Cycle Institute’s 3A Learning® process integrates learning, leadership, and organizational change management competencies to produce measurable, sustainable results.
The 3A Learning® process facilitates improved business results and delivers a measurable return on investment for learning initiatives.
What Is High Impact Learning?
Effective training occurs only when learning is applied and desired results are achieved. Traditional training results in only 10–30% application of new knowledge and skills.Two factors most strongly influence application: retention strategies and management support. When these are included, application can reach 90% or higher. At Life Cycle Institute, this is called High Impact Learning.
The 3A Learning® Process
The 3A Learning® process is a structured, three-step approach that includes activities before, during, and after the learning event.
Align
Clarify expectations and connect learning to business goals.
Assimilate
Engage learners through active, relevant learning experiences.
Apply
Ensure learning sticks through real-world application.
Before participating in a learning event, participants should have a thorough understanding of what they are expected to learn, how their behavior is expected to change, the results they are expected to achieve, and how these results contribute to the overall goals of the organization.
To help meet these expectations, the use of learning objectives and Learning Impact Maps are crucial.
Well-developed learning objectives are the foundation of a successful learning intervention. These objectives should be measurable and define the action a participant will be able to take post-training.
A Learning Impact Map is a simple tool used to identify if the training can achieve the desired results, prepare participants to learn and change behavior based on the training, and link the desired behavior with organizational performance and business goals.
During the learning event, the focus is on integrating the learning that resonates best with the participant. A successful learning event engages participants to apply what they already know while building relevant skills they can focus on and practice during class.
It should be participant-centered, grounded in adult learning principles, led by skilled facilitators, and supported by a clear learning impact map.
Effective learning events recognize that people learn differently and bring a wide range of knowledge, life experiences, interests, and competencies.
The four principles of adult learning include:
• Experience – engaging and reinforcing prior knowledge
• Active – actively applying skills during training
• Relevant – directly applicable to real work
• Self-direction – encouraging autonomy and ownership
Applying what one has learned is where 80–90% of learning takes place. The Application phase involves using the skills and knowledge within the work environment.
This phase is what makes the learning “stick,” causing a behavior change that produces desired results. Learning Impact Maps are used to reflect on original goals and note new knowledge gained.
A subject matter expert coach may be available to support and deepen application.
Follow-through is a critical step in the learning process. It encourages participants to take action, solicit feedback, and continue collaborative learning for up to three months after the learning event.
Training delivers maximum results when retention strategies are included, management is involved, Learning Impact Maps are documented, and a follow-through coaching plan is in place.
The 3A Learning® process brings these elements together to create a true High Impact Learning experience that changes behavior and achieves personal and organizational goals.
