Learning Philosophy

The WoW Approach to Learning

Designing and delivering learning that lasts

Slow Learning

WoW programs were grounded in established learning science and designed in alignment with MSF's articulated Learning & Development principles. These principles recognize that:

Learning is a process constructivism; experiential learning

Learning is personal adult learning; self-directed learning

Learning takes place in real life situated and experiential learning

Learning is social social learning theory

Learning is a shared responsibility peer learning; communities of practice

Building on this foundation, the WoW team coined the term “Slow Learning” to describe how we designed and delivered WoW programs in practice. Our goal was not simply to “transfer knowledge,” but rather, to support sustained changes in habits, behaviors, and ways of working across MSF teams.

We designed the WoW programs with the understanding that learning unfolds over time and that true learning requires intention, practice, peer engagement, repetition, and space to reflect and try again.

“Slow Learning” became our way of describing this approach that recognizes:

Learning is not a single event; it evolves over time
Learning is not just understanding; it requires application
Learning is not incidental; it is intentional

Rather than rushing learning, WoW programs slowed learning down to create opportunities for participants to explore, apply, reflect, and grow with each other.

“It Depends”: The Power of Context

In the WoW Approach, we recognized that there is rarely a single “right” answer and encouraged participants to move beyond prescriptive solutions and use critical thinking to determine how best to apply their new learning to their specific workplace environments.

“It Depends” acknowledges that the application of learning is contextual and collaborative. WoW courses asked participants to consider the complexity of their real-world environments, because the goal isn't just to learn about a tool, but to develop the judgment to know when and how to use that tool.

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