ERIC Number: EJ1136085
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2008
Pages: 20
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: EISSN-1552-9045
EISSN: N/A
Skills of the Spartans: Exploring Leadership in "300"
Gray, Tara D.; Callahan, Jamie
Journal of Leadership Education, v7 n2 spec iss p79-98 Fall 2008
Skills Approach leadership development suggests individuals can develop the skills, abilities, and behaviors needed to lead. However, it can be difficult to understand and apply these theoretical concepts. Movies provide a storytelling platform enabling learners to link theory to practice. This article uses "300" to explore skills-based leadership theories. "300" (2007) is an adaptation of Frank Miller's novel depicting the Battle of Thermopylae (400 B.C.) between Greece and Persia. The movie tells the story of how King Leonidas led 300 Spartan warriors in battle against King Xerxes' army in defense of Spartan land, values, and freedom. We provide background on Katz's (1955) and Mumford, Zacaro, Harding, Jacobs, and Fleishman (2000) skills approaches. Then we describe how theoretical concepts associated with these approaches can be found in the movie. Finally, we provide suggestions for experiential learning activities which serve to help participants link and apply theory to practice.
Descriptors: Leadership Training, Skill Development, Teaching Methods, Films, Theory Practice Relationship, Leadership Styles, Experiential Learning, Learning Activities, Leadership Qualities, Interpersonal Relationship, Trust (Psychology), Cognitive Ability
Association of Leadership Educators. e-mail: Jole@aged.tamu.edu; Web site: http://leadershipeducators.org/page-1014283
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Descriptive; Guides - Classroom - Teacher
Education Level: N/A
Audience: Teachers
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A