The purpose of this research was to identify and describe the action's leaders practice that stimulate individual and group learning. An MLQ- Multifactor Leadership Questionnaire and a series of interviews with members of three work teams were utilized to gather research data. This is one of the first studies completed to research this important aspect of leadership. In all three cases, the teams shared experiences where learning was transformed into useable knowledge to accomplish objectives or solve problems. The three teams learned and generated new knowledge based on viewing, challenging, sharing, orchestrating, and modeling.The findings suggest transformational leadership behaviors and actions can and often do influence individual and group learning. Specific findings included that in all three case studies, 1) team leaders engaged in transformational leadership practices 2) transformational leaders created a climate for learning by encouragement, establishing cooperation, and the identification and use of team talent. In addition, 3) the leader modeled appropriate behaviors, 4) challenged the team to question basic assumptions shared by others, 5) and acquired, shares and assimilated information for the purpose of aiding in team learning. Furthermore, in at least two cases, the leader 6) provided the team with opportunities to learn about the "big picture" and how their actions and decisions impact larger systems, and 7) provided team members with opportunities to become their own leader.Results of the research suggest organizations should consider ways to teach leaders about their role in organizational learning, systems thinking, and how their personal actions influence follower performance. Leaders should also construct climates that allow learning to take place. Lastly, with the support from leaders, knowledge and information systems are important organizational elements, which lead to learning. / Department of Educational Leadership
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:BSU/oai:cardinalscholar.bsu.edu:handle/174853 |
| Date | January 1997 |
| Creators | Ash, David B. |
| Contributors | McElhinney, James H. |
| Source Sets | Ball State University |
| Detected Language | English |
| Format | vii, 152 leaves ; 28 cm. |
| Source | Virtual Press |
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