APPROACH
The approach is based on the innovative combination of experiential and interractive methods for the best learning result.
Experiential Learning
Experiential learning is achieved through reflection upon everyday experience and is often defined as learning through reflection on doing. Kolb’s learning model has been of experiential learning. It is created out of four elements: concrete experience, observation and reflection, the formation of abstract concepts and testing in new situations. Manos’ workshops and training courses are designed in a way that provides plenty of opportunities for ‘learning by doing’.
Transformative Learning
Desired change is often a difficult task to achieve. One of the main reasons is that people have created specific meaning schemes over time. Hence, possible dysfunctional beliefs they may have do not let them explore other possibilities. Transformative learning is a deep procedure, which helps people develop their self-awareness and their social relationships. Critical reflection and discourse are key elements during a transformation learning process. Manos makes use of tools and learning techniques that reinforce critical reflection and discourse during his workshops.
Double Loop Learning
Close to Experiential Learning and Transformative Learning, the work of Harvard Professor, Chris Argyris, has shed some light on the way people can avoid repeating the same mistakes. Double-loop learning is the modification or rejection of a goal in the light of experience and it recognizes that the way a problem is defined and solved can be a source of the problem. Double loop learning is used when it is necessary to change the mental model on which a decision depends. The model of double loop learning is used through exercises and tools in most of Manos’ workshops.
Appreciative Inquiry
Appreciative Inquiry is more than a model of management or training. It is more related to a holistic approach and attitude of recognizing the best in people or their environment and affirming their strengths, successes, and potentials through an open and systematic exploration. Manos takes advantage of various training models and coaching tools, such as the 4D, in order to assist people boost their performance and achieve their goals.
Use of Art
The use of works of Art has been recognized as a very stimulating learning tool, which helps learners to develop their critical reflection, their creativity and thinking out of the box. Moreover, observing and analyzing a work of Art can be a good opportunity for people to express freely their thoughts and emotions, without the fear of being judged and, hence, discuss ‘difficult’ issues, such as lack of cooperation in their working place. D. Perkins’ ‘Visible Thinking’ and A. Kokkos’ ‘Learning through the aesthetic experience’ are the main tools Manos is using in cases, in which the above learning goals are necessary.