Informational vs Transformational Approach to Development

Years ago when I used to lead teacher-training sessions the first principle I would drive into their thinking was, "Teaching isn't talking, listening isn’t learning."  We make a fatal mistake in leadership development when our only approach to development is dumping a bunch of information on learners.  Dumping information doesn't necessarily equate to transformation.  Yet many organizations use an informational rather than a transformational approach to developing leaders. Here are some of the big differences between the two.

• Informational tells the learner about principles they need to know.  Transformational teaches people to behave in new ways by challenging them to put principles into practice.
• Informational dumps knowledge.  Transformational develops competencies
• Informational is one-way communication. Transformational is a two-way dialogue
• Informational uses the science of teaching.  Transformational uses the art of facilitation
• Informational follows a linear pathway.  Transformational customizes learning based on the learners present situation and needs
• Informational the instructor uses a structured, highly controlled lesson plan.  Transformational the instructor allows freedom and flexibility in the lesson plan
• Informational puts a priority on content.  Transformational puts priority on behavioral change

Organizations invest hours upon hours in leadership development.  Make sure your investment is producing the transformation you desire.