Understanding Learning Equilibrium

Learning is internal. Training is external. Performance is the equilibrium.

This simple framework captures a fundamental truth about human development that is often overlooked in corporate learning and development initiatives.

The Internal Nature of Learning

Learning happens inside the individual. It's a process of meaning-making, connection-building, and schema development that occurs within the learner's mind. No external intervention can directly cause learning - it can only create conditions that make learning more likely.

The External Nature of Training

Training, on the other hand, is what organizations do to their people. It's the structured intervention - the workshops, courses, simulations, and experiences we design and deliver. Training is under our control. Learning is not.

The Performance Equilibrium

Performance is what we're actually after. It's the point where internal learning and external training meet and produce measurable outcomes. This equilibrium is what makes the investment worthwhile.

Understanding this distinction changes how we approach learning and development. Instead of assuming that training causes learning, we become more thoughtful about creating the conditions for learning to occur.

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This post was originally published on The Learning Equilibrium blog.