Learning Labs combine rapid-cycle learning and community-based design approaches to improve the programs and practices that support economic resiliency.
FOCUS
Defining and prioritizing areas for improvement using rigorous methods that define the starting point and inform strategic directions and measures of success.
IMPROVE
Rapid prototyping and learning cycles generate evidence and enable solutions using human-centered design and behavioral insights.
MOBILIZE
Collaborative data analysis involves stakeholders and improves conditions for collective impact and scaling what works.
What is a Learning Lab?
More than ever, state and local leaders are coming together to solve problems and build a more equitable and economically resilient future. Doing so effectively requires evidence, tools, and processes that involve impacted communities and adapt to the complexities of different contexts.
Learning labs begin with a conversation with workforce system leaders and their core partners to discuss goals, assets and key challenges that are limiting workers' access, opportunities and ability to thrive.
Based on these insights, the Learning Lab team drafts a sequence of learning and design cycles that are community-based and targeted to the challenges the workforce system is trying to address. We then work together with leaders and their key partners to revise the plan of action to better fit their needs, timeframe and budget.
Get StartedLearning & Design Sprint Cycle
Learning Lab Library
Long Story Short: How Can Behavioral Insights Improve Public Services and Policies?
Behavioral insights draw on psychology, cognitive science, social science, and research to understand how people make decisions. In this video, AIR Principal Researcher Samia Amin explains why the use of behavioral insights has become increasingly important in the public sector.
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Using Collective Impact Theory to Build a Work-Based Learning Ecosystem
Without question, the COVID-19 pandemic changed the way we work and learn. Industries and education systems are adopting new technologies and new methods of communication, teamwork, and collaboration.
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Focusing on Others with Human-Centered Design
As we shift to adapt in times of uncertainty, what type of mindset should we adopt for our own health and wellness and as we interact with our colleagues, clients, and even our families?
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Aligning Systems With Communities to Advance Equity Through Shared Measurement
Systems within communities—including medical care, public health, housing, education, transportation, justice, and human services—directly influence the health and well-being of community members. These systems often operate independently from each other, resulting in inefficient allocation of resources, lack or duplication of services, and poor service quality.
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Social
Network
Analysis
Social network analysis is a relationship-mapping research method that allows researchers to find and analyze patterns within a group. In the latest from our Methods in a Minute series, learn how they can meaningfully inform policy suggestions and more.
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Promoting Digital Equity and Opportunity in the Time of
COVID-19
The COVID-19 pandemic and the abrupt shift to virtual learning and service provisions have fundamentally altered geographies of educational opportunity. While this transition has potentially opened a space for expansive thinking and bold innovation in education, it has also amplified the need for swift and effective approaches to ensure digital equity.
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Let’s do this.
Does a Learning Lab sound like the right thing for you?
Want to move fast for the people you serve?
We are ready when you are.