Action learning: Application to case study development in graduate design education

Action learning based on action research is an approach that is most appropriate for higher levels of personal and professional development of students, where emergent learning takes place in the context of an external environment. The approach offers a valuable framework that can be applied to international research experiences and case study development, particularly in the context of graduate design education. Grounded in action learning theory, this article describes a case study development process that suggests a model for engagement of graduate design students in international rural development. The article also discusses the use of information and communication technologies (ICT) in the creation of multimedia case studies that bring rich infield international experiences dealing with craft producers in rural India back to the classroom, where it has the potential to vicariously inform undergraduate and graduate design education. Action learning experientially prepared the graduate design student for creative and management career by serving as a tool for emancipatory personal and professional development and instilling self-confidence in the learner.