Critical Aspects of Action Learning: Results of Integration Between University and Brazilian Startups

Abstract

This article aims to highlight the critical factors in the application of an action learning method in an extension project at the Federal University of Santa Catarina. The practical procedures proposed by the project are based on the constructivist approach to learning. A qualitative approach was used for data collection, and the applied method of case study. As a result, it was possible to observe some student behavioral events, the search for an optimal and generic problem solution from the scientific literature or similar examples. Another aspect observed was students’ understanding that internal organization and learning management are more important than the technical solution itself. The uniqueness of the startup problem, coupled with limited facts and data, led the group to decide more about studies at an on-site startup than generic bibliographic research on the problem. Practical implications of this research include the contribution to educators and facilitators dealing with problems of uncertain and dynamic nature.