Doing, knowing, learning: systematization of experiences based on the knowledge management of HORIZONT3000

Authors

  • Petra Herout
  • Elisabeth Schmid

Keywords:

systematization of experiences, facilitation, participation, Austria, non-governmental organizations

Abstract

This case study presents systematization of experiences as an innovative, creative and context-sensitive approach to reflect on experiences and to learn together and from each other. The protagonists of a systematization process are the people that actually lived the experience in question. However, the authors argue that facilitation is crucial for the success of this learning process. Drawing on the experience of the knowledge management program of HORIZONT3000, an Austrian non-governmental organization, the case study deals with the opportunities a systematization process offers as a participatory and emancipatory learning process. Depending on the composition of the facilitation team, the outcomes of a systematization vary considerably. In a successful systematization process, the traditional ideas of facilitation are overcome. The facilitators not only serve as moderators, who support others to achieve their goals, but the facilitators are part of the team, they have decision-making authority and they lead the process. The facilitators? central task is to create an environment of trust, respect and tolerance. The participants need to feel secure and confident to share their perspectives, feelings and interpretations without fear or shame in order to make learning and understanding possible.

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Published

2015-05-06