Academics’ Leadership Styles and Their Motivation to Participate in a Leadership Training Program in the Digital Era
Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Previous studies have demonstrated the significance of leadership training for the professional growth of academics. In the Digital Era, where technological advancements and new learning environments are transforming leadership development, this study seeks to explore whether and how academics’ leadership styles influence their motivation to participate in a leadership training program. Based on survey data from 761 participants directly involved in a leadership development project, this study adopted a path model analysis method and provides novel empirical evidence on whether participants’ leadership styles influence their motivation to participate in leadership training programs. By examining this relationship in the context of the Digital Era, where digital tools and virtual platforms play a significant role, the study sheds light on how leadership approaches drive individuals’ motivation for further development—an aspect that has been underexplored in the past. Focusing on participants from a leadership development project, the study offers practical insights into how different leadership styles may impact engagement and interest in leadership training, particularly in digital and hybrid learning settings. This could help organizations tailor their leadership programs to better address the diverse needs of participants with varying leadership orientations in a digitally connected world.
Source: Education Sciences
Authors: Zhao Cheng, Chang Zhu
Institution: Vrije Universiteit Brussel
Language: English
Subfield: Applied Psychology
Field: Psychology
Domain: Social Sciences
SDG: Quality education
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,172
OpenAlex ID: W4408504122