Leadership development in a digital time

Abstract

This thesis investigates how blended learning can contribute to leadership development to better fit for a digital future. This is done through a qualitative examination, by exploring the new executive program ‘Mindful leadership (in a digital time)’ at BI. The purpose of the present study is to identify key elements of a blended learning program that foster learning and development of leaders in a digital time. The study illuminates three aspects of particular interest. The program in itself, in terms of using blended learning, turns out to be an important factor. Thus, some specific learning resources used in ‘Mindful leadership (in a digital time)’ seems to yield positive outcomes on participants learning outcomes, such as virtual learning teams. Hence, suggesting that using these learning resources should foster learning and development. In addition, the use of artsbased methods creates important knowledge and have benefits suitable for leaders to incorporate in their work life. Through an evaluation of the program ‘Mindful leadership (in a digital time)’ this thesis reveal several specific learning outcomes and give examples of how informants have already applied some of the content and knowledge at work. Moreover, informants report an overall satisfaction with the program. In essence, it illustrates how a blended leadership development program can contribute to learning and development of leaders in a digital time.