Co-Creating Learning: LxD Lab's Journey
In April 2023, Harsh & I kicked off the LxD Lab - a small community of 20 learning experience designers based in India designing online learning experiences.
When we started the, we had 2 things in mind:
How can we learn from learning experience designers that are doing great work?
How can our learnings become sometime tangible that the world can use?
How this will happen was not very well defined, but in the true spirit of learning by doing - we felt we would figure it out!
And while this journey is nowhere close to completion, here are 5 lessons we have learnt along the way for co-creation for learning -
1/ First Who, Then What 🧑🏻
Before diving into the 'what' of your project, focus on the 'who. Co-creation is a messy process! Make sure you have the right partners.
For the LxD Lab, the first two weeks were dedicated to knowing each other, building trust, and establishing common ground. We refrained from talking about the handbook - or what we were coming together to do.
Having the right people in place, will make your co-creation journey a lot more fun & fulfilling!
2/ A Clear North Star ⭐️
To embark on a co-creation journey, you need a destination. Define your shared goals and set a clear timeframe.
The LxD Lab initially didn't know what their project would be about, but they had a time-bound commitment - 3-4 months to create an LxD handbook. This deadline not only helped us take decisions in the process but also forced us to think of creative solutions along the way.
Having a shared goal acts as a compass, guiding your co-creation efforts in the right direction.
3/ Optimize for Fun & Learning 🪁
Co-creation isn't just about producing outcomes; it's about the experience itself. Make it enjoyable. Make it a learning adventure.
In the LxD Lab, we were constantly aware that the Lab Rats (yes that’s what we like to call ourselves) are a part of this outside of their full-time jobs and personal lives. We tried our best to make sure that this doesn’t seem like more ‘work’ to do or ‘yet another meeting to attend’.
Injecting enjoyment and education into co-creation ensures active and engaged learners :)
4/ Celebrate Small Wins 🏆
Acknowledging progress is vital in co-creation. The process of co-creation - from chaos to clarity can get really frustrating at times. Celebrate small wins along the way.
In the LxD Lab, we tried to build in small moments of celebration - from highlighting personal achievements outside the Lab to also acknowledging effort put in for the handbook.
Celebration is underrated in learning. This not only boosts morale but also reinforces the collaborative spirit, creating a positive feedback loop of motivation and productivity.
5/ Build for Clarity 🔮
Facilitators play a crucial role in co-creation. One underrated skill is building clarity and effective communication.
In the LxD Lab, what Harsh and I constantly tried to do as facilitators as to build clarity. From ensuring that everyone understood their roles, to aligning expectations to building processes.
Clarity in communication reduces misunderstandings, boosts efficiency, and keeps the co-creation process on track. It's like having a well-oiled machine - it runs smoother with clear instructions.
In a Nutshell 🌰
Co-creating together can be a great way to learn!
Whether you're shaping a community of practice or embarking on your co-creation journey, these tips can help guide your journey:
1/ First Who, Then What 🧑🏻
2/ A Clear North Star ⭐️
3/ Optimize for Fun & Learning 🪁
4/ Celebrate Small Wins 🏆
5/ Build for Clarity 🔮
So, gather your team, set your goals, and let the magic of co-creation transform your learning experience.