How can you incorporate active learning into leadership training?

1 Choose relevant and realistic scenarios

One way to incorporate active learning into your leadership training is to use scenarios that are relevant and realistic for your context and goals. Scenarios are hypothetical situations that challenge you to apply your knowledge and skills to solve problems, make decisions, or achieve outcomes. For example, you could use scenarios that simulate a crisis, a conflict, a negotiation, or a feedback session. Scenarios can be presented as case studies, role plays, simulations, or games. The key is to make them as authentic and engaging as possible, so that you can practice your leadership skills in a safe and constructive environment.

2 Ask open-ended and reflective questions

Another way to incorporate active learning into your leadership training is to ask open-ended and reflective questions that stimulate your curiosity and deepen your understanding. Open-ended questions are those that cannot be answered with a simple yes or no, but require you to explain, justify, or elaborate your thoughts and actions. For example, you could ask yourself or others: What are the main issues or challenges in this scenario? What are the possible solutions or alternatives? What are the pros and cons of each option? How would you implement your chosen solution? Reflective questions are those that help you evaluate your performance and identify areas for improvement. For example, you could ask yourself or others: What did you learn from this scenario? What did you do well and what could you do better? How can you apply what you learned to other situations?

4 Experiment and iterate

A fourth way to incorporate active learning into your leadership training is to experiment and iterate, which means to try out different approaches and learn from your successes and failures. Experimentation and iteration are crucial for innovation and adaptation, as they allow you to test your assumptions, discover new possibilities, and refine your solutions. You can experiment and iterate by applying the cycle of plan-do-check-act (PDCA), which involves setting a goal, implementing a plan, checking the results, and acting on the feedback. You can also use tools such as prototyping, brainstorming, or mind mapping to generate and test your ideas.

6 Review and document your learning

A sixth way to incorporate active learning into your leadership training is to review and document your learning, which means to summarize, organize, and record what you have learned and how you have learned it. Reviewing and documenting your learning can help you consolidate your memory, reinforce your understanding, and track your progress. You can review and document your learning by using tools such as journals, portfolios, or blogs, where you can reflect on your learning experiences, outcomes, and achievements. You can also use tools such as badges, certificates, or awards, where you can recognize and celebrate your learning accomplishments.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?