Developing Learners into Leaders: Lessons from Assessing a Leader-As-Coach Program

Program Type: General Interest Session

Professional Competencies: Assessment, Evaluation, and Research, Student Learning and Development

Target Groups: Mid-level Student Affairs Professionals, Senior-Level Student Affairs Professional

Institution Types: Large Universities, Small Colleges & Universities

Certification Domains: Student Learning, Development, and Success, Assessment and Evaluation

Abstract

This session focuses on a "Leader as Coach" program administered at an American business school and assessed using rigorous program evaluation techniques. The program in question takes an identity-centered approach to leader development, focusing on adaptive inquiry, coaching conversations, and empathetic support. Utilizing a waitlist-controlled design, the assessment found significant improvements in program participants’ developmental outcomes when compared to a control group, thereby providing causal evidence of the program's effectiveness.

During this session, the presenter will explore both the benefits of and strategies for incorporating developmental components into leadership programs in a way conducive to valid quantitative assessment. Through both discussions and interactive exercises, attendees in this session will gain actionable insights and strategies for employing evidence-based evaluations of leader development initiatives in their own organizational contexts. Attendees will also be able to share experiences and collaboratively explore ways to implement what they learn in diverse educational and organizational environments.

Presenters

• Aaron Pomerantz
  Rice University