Productive Failure

Recognising the value of failure is transformative in adult learning. It is more than just about making room for mistakes; it involves fostering a culture where experimentation and the freedom to fail are vital to innovation and adaptability. This shift away from immediate success as the benchmark of learning effectiveness encourages more adaptable individuals and, in turn, a more resilient and innovative workforce.

Crucial to this shift is the concept of productive failure, as outlined by Professor Manu Kapur, pertaining to “a learning design that entails the design of conditions for learners to persist in generating and exploring representations and solution methods (RSMs) for solving complex, novel problems.” 

Interview with Professor Manu Kapur

The Institute for Adult Learning conducted a pilot study on Productive Failure in the adult learning sector in 2022, and results showed remarkable benefits across various educational contexts. By encouraging learners to step out of their comfort zones, educators facilitate a space of discovery and experimentation, crucial for breaking down psychological barriers and providing a platform for learners to devise novel solutions to complex issues.

In areas like coaching and leadership training, productive failure encourages learners to test various strategies and learn from their setbacks, leading to a more comprehensive development of skills. In technical fields, such as first aid or emergency management, learners are initially challenged to apply their knowledge in unguided scenarios, promoting a deeper grasp of principles and techniques through subsequent consolidation.

Feedback from educators who have implemented productive failure underscores its effectiveness: learners are more engaged, actively seeking solutions and learning from their attempts. This method equips them with the targeted skills and knowledge and cultivates critical soft skills such as critical thinking, communication, and resilience.

Interview with Adult Educators