Person centered, technology enhanced learning in action: Action research in a course on organizational development

In the preceding years we practiced person centered, technology enhanced learning in a course on organizational development that was particularly well received by students. In this paper we share the underlying philosophy, discuss the current course design, students´ reactions, and our experiences and lessons learned in order to provide a realistic picture and open pool of inspiration for other educators. Concurrently, we confirm the applicability of participatory action research as a methodological framework suited for improving course design, specific interventions, and theory building. Within that framework we suggest to apply qualitative and quantitative methods in order to address specific research questions and to allow for quality management. Initial results indicate that students consider exchange and discussion, cooperation with peers, as well as interpersonal contacts within the team as the top factors for their significant learning. Students felt that besides gaining intellectual knowledge they benefited on the level of social skills and interpersonal attitudes and, furthermore, grew together as a community.