Revisiting Kurt Lewin's Action Research Model for Organization Development (OD)

Kurt Lewin's Action Research Model is a problem-solving approach that involves collaboration between researchers and practitioners to identify, analyze, and address real-world issues. It consists of a cyclic process of planning, action, observation, and reflection.

The key stages of Lewin's Action Research Model are:

1.????Identification of the Problem: The first step is to identify and define the problem or issue that needs to be addressed. This may involve gathering input from stakeholders, conducting interviews, or analyzing data.

2.????Planning: In this stage, researchers and practitioners collaborate to develop a plan of action. The plan should outline the objectives, research questions, data collection methods, and strategies for addressing the problem.

3.????Action: The planned actions are implemented in this stage. It involves putting the strategies and interventions into practice, making any necessary adjustments along the way.

4.????Observation: During the action phase, data is collected through various methods such as surveys, interviews, observations, or document analysis. This data is used to evaluate the effectiveness of the actions taken and to monitor progress.

5.????Reflection: The data collected in the observation stage is analyzed and interpreted. Researchers and practitioners reflect on the findings to gain insights into what worked, what did not work, and what could be improved.

6.????Feedback and Iteration: The insights gained from the reflection stage are shared with stakeholders and used to refine the strategies and interventions. Feedback is provided to all involved parties, and necessary adjustments are made to the plan of action.

7.????Implementation and Continuation: Based on the feedback and revised plan, the actions are implemented again. The process continues in iterative cycles until the desired outcomes are achieved.

Key Principles of Lewin's Action Research Model:

a. Participation: Active involvement and collaboration of

stakeholders throughout the process is crucial for successful problem-solving

and decision-making.

b. Cyclical Process: The model emphasizes the iterative

nature of problem-solving, allowing for continuous learning and improvement.

c. Data-Driven: The model emphasizes the use of empirical

data to guide decision-making and evaluate the effectiveness of actions taken.

d. Collaboration: Researchers and practitioners work

together as a team, combining their expertise and knowledge to address the

problem effectively.

e. Action Orientation: The model focuses on taking action

and implementing interventions rather than relying solely on theoretical

analysis.

Lewin's Action Research Model provides a systematic approach to

addressing complex problems, promoting collaboration, and driving positive

change in organizations or communities.

?Also an important part of OD is to understand the unfreeze, change and refreeze aspect of the change process.

Feel free to reach out with your queries.

About the Author: Manoj Onkar, OD expert with 30 years of experience in individual and organization transformation. [email protected] and [email protected]