Abstract

“The Power of Soul and Spirit in Business,” an elective in the management curriculum in a business school, has been offered with increasing popularity for several years. More than 280 students have enrolled in this class, and the design of the course continues to be influenced by basic assumptions regarding the best techniques for adult learning. The class focuses on several learning outcomes related to understanding the positive influences that soul (heart) and spirit (passion and enthusiasm) can exert within an organization and how these forces can contribute to creating a healthy work environment. A variety of assumptions about learning guide the design of the class including: creating an atmosphere that helps students feel safe, capable and confident; growing a culture of community within the classroom; providing a variety of opportunities for hands-on learning by means of active learning strategies; and creating opportunities for students to learn from each other as well as celebrating the differences and unique gifts of all classroom members. Student reactions to the class will be discussed in addition to follow-up interviews with several alumni who continue to see evidence of the impact of their learning in both their professional and personal lives.