Exploring Collaborative Learning Methods in Leadership Development Programs

Collaborative learning as it pertained to leadership development was an obscured method of learning. There was little research addressing the attributes contributing to collaborative learning for leadership development in leadership development programs. By completing this manuscript, scholarly learners may have additional information on knowledge-based practicing organizations. The purpose of this qualitative study was to understand how collaborative learning influenced leadership development within leadership development programs within high performing organizations. Data collection included semistructured interview questions and a review of training documentation with a combination of dramaturgical coding and purposive sampling from 20 participants that attended leadership development programs within a high performing organization. The 7-step data analysis process, methodology triangulation, and member checking consisted of structure and credibility of the findings. There were primary and secondary themes that aligned with Hanson\u27s leadership development interface model. The 2 primary themes were categorized as collaborative learning and shared knowledge, while the secondary themes included role models, communication: listening and feedback, problem-solving, knowledgeable: subject matter expert, transparency, and training and teaching. The findings of this study suggest that collaborative learning influenced leadership development programs by practicing group work and by sharing different ideas. These findings have potential implications for positive social change, as the information may add to the body of knowledge for future scholars and valuable information for stakeholders to build a knowledge-based practicing organization