Classroom That Inspires Leadership

The question of whether leadership can be taught is probably the wrong question, because it implies that leadership is something that can be learned like the table of periodic elements or the theory of relativity. And that of course short-changes teaching as a dynamic process.

What is possible in the classroom however, is for leadership to be inspired, cultivated and nurtured. This is done by showcasing examples and teaching cases, as well as exposing students to leaders they otherwise might have never meet. For example, the Kennedy School the Reynolds Fellowships in Social Entrepreneurship have introduced students to nonprofit leaders like J.B. Schramm of College Summit and Jacqueline Novogratz of the Acumen Fund who for some will probably become role models, if not lifelong mentors.

There is drama to the choices leaders make, and lessons that apply across fields and disciplines. The classroom can't insert leadership skills into students, but it can bring leadership qualities to life for them.

By Bill Shore

 |  April 20, 2009; 12:30 PM ET
Category:  Teaching Leadership Save & Share:                 
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