The study highlights the importance of arts-based approaches in leadership education

Arts-based methods can significantly enhance leadership education and better prepare students to tackle the major societal challenges of our time, new research from the University of Eastern Finland shows. The study, published in International Journal of Management Educationexamined a course on innovation cultures delivered at the University of Eastern Finland between 2013 and 2023, where students used visual arts, music, drama and sport as part of their learning process.

According to studies, arts-based approaches support the development of students’ emotional intelligence, creativity and critical thinking. They encourage students to reflect on their experiences, question their assumptions, and explore leadership from new perspectives. Arts-based approaches promote collaborative learning and create learning environments that reflect the complexity and demands of workplaces.

“Students felt that the course helped them gain a deeper understanding of innovation cultures, while encouraging them to apply creative thinking both in their studies and in their future careers. Many reported more confidence and courage in experimenting with new things, even in cases where they had no artistic background,” says university lecturer Pasi Heronen, one of the course instructors. one

Studies show that arts-based approaches are not only beneficial in leadership education, but they also offer broader opportunities to develop educational principles that help students become responsible and empathetic change leaders. Arts-based approaches empower students to navigate uncertainty, work in teams and networks, and strengthen emotions and creativity as drivers of change.

According to course instructors, successful course implementation requires strong teaching skills, the ability to navigate uncertainty, and above all, institutional support. “Creating a safe and stimulating learning environment is essential for students to feel confident enough to engage with creative learning methods,” noted Professor Hanna Lahtimaki.

The study highlights the need for reforms in business education to better respond to current and future challenges. Traditional teaching methods should be supplemented with methods that support the holistic growth of students.

As Hieronen concludes, “Arts-based approaches provide students with a unique opportunity to develop skills that are urgently needed in modern workplaces. Empathy, critical thinking and creative problem solving are not the only academic goals that will enable future professionals to thrive in a rapidly changing and increasingly complex world.”