Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/appreciative-inquiry
In today’s rapidly changing world, effective leadership is more crucial than ever. The ‘Leading Positive Change through Appreciative Inquiry’ course available on Coursera is a remarkable journey into understanding and applying the principles of Appreciative Inquiry (AI) as a transformative approach to leadership and change management.
Course Overview
Appreciative Inquiry focuses on discovering what makes organizations, communities, and human systems thrive. Unlike traditional problem-solving methods that often emphasize addressing deficits, AI encourages you to identify and build on the strengths that already exist in your environment. The course is structured into six engaging weeks that provide a deep dive into the philosophy and application of AI.
The first week sets the stage by defining Appreciative Inquiry and showcasing its contrast with deficit-based change approaches. It effectively argues why AI is crucial for effective change management, emphasizing the power of focusing on strengths rather than problems.
In the second week, participants learn about the impact of crafting positive questions and sharing stories to inspire change. The concept of the “appreciative interview” is introduced, and I found this engaging as it allowed me to practise asking questions that uncover strengths and foster meaningful conversations.
The third week introduces the AI change framework known as the 4-D Cycle: Discovery, Dream, Design, and Destiny. This model provides a comprehensive roadmap for guiding organizations towards positive change, and it was inspiring to witness practical examples of leaders employing this method.
Week four segues into the foundational principles of AI, reinforcing the significance of positive emotions and imagery in fostering a thriving workplace. It highlights the importance of maintaining a positive bias in interactions, suggesting that for every negative remark, there should be at least four positive affirmations.
The fifth week’s case study of a trucking company serves as a practical application of AI, illustrating how reframing problems as opportunities leads to tangible results and improved workplace culture.
Finally, the sixth week ties everything together with a case study on safety improvement in a steel mill, reinforcing the AI principle that “words create our worlds.” This final discussion encourages leaders not only to implement AI but to embody its principles in their everyday lives.
Recommendation
If you’re a leader, manager, or even someone aspiring to enhance their leadership skills, I highly recommend the ‘Leading Positive Change through Appreciative Inquiry’ course. It provides you with the tools not only to initiate change but also to cultivate a positive culture within your organization. By focusing on strengths, you’ll find that people are more engaged and motivated, resulting in a healthier, more productive workplace.
This course is suitable for individuals from various backgrounds and industries, making it a versatile choice for anyone interested in positively influencing their sphere of influence.
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/appreciative-inquiry