Developing Human Potential: A Personal Approach to Leadership
Gina S. Matkin, University of Nebraska – Lincoln
Jason Headrick, Texas Tech University
Hannah M. Sunderman, Virginia Tech
Copyright Year:
Publisher: University of Nebraska Pressbooks
Language: English
Formats Available
Conditions of Use
Attribution-NonCommercial
CC BY-NC
Reviews
Coverage of content is comprehensive and appropriate for the specific undergraduate course for which it is designed, as well as courses that are closely aligned. Overall, an excellent use of available space in the current format. read more
Coverage of content is comprehensive and appropriate for the specific undergraduate course for which it is designed, as well as courses that are closely aligned. Overall, an excellent use of available space in the current format.
Information is presented in an accurate way throughout the text, with appropriate examples and activities, as needed
The information contained within this text is highly relevant- the longevity of the information, however, will be dependent upon developing theories and trends within the field of leadership studies.
Information is easy to understand and is appropriate for use in a broad range of related courses.
Consistent throughout. The authors rely on the foundational models of Academically Based Service Learning and the Social Change Model of Leadership throughout the text.
Some of the chapters would best be reviewed together, particularly the chapters pertaining to self-awareness/development of foundational leadership vision and goals. The introduction of sections, containing two or more chapters, may enhance the structure of the text.
Overall, the text is organized in an easy-to-follow, logical manner. The introduction of sections within the book, containing related chapters, may be advisable for future editions.
Easy to navigate and utilize
Very few errors, high quality publication
The text is culturally sensitive and current; future editions may consider devoting additional space to the importance of, and recommendations for, staying abreast of evolving issues and developments in the areas of cultural awareness and intersectionality.
Developing Human Potential: A Personal Approach to Leadership is an Open Educational Resource (OER) publication edited by Gina S. Matkin, Jason Headrick, and Hannah M. Sunderman, with content provided by fourteen contributing authors across twelve chapters. Originally written as a text for the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) course ALEC 102: Interpersonal Skills in Leadership, the book is “based on two foundational models that help guide both the topics and the content… Academically Based Service Learning and the Social Change Model of Leadership” (p. 19).
The publication is structured in a way that is easy to follow, and includes concepts, case studies and activities that are sure to enhance the reader’s approach to common leadership issues and challenges- regardless of experience level or where one may be in their own academic or leadership journey. The practical applications of the book make it a must-read for students who aspire to any type of leadership position, while the focus on enhancing the reader’s awareness of their personal values and leadership goals can serve as an important reminder for even experienced practitioners in high level leadership positions. Developing Human Potential: A Personal Approach to Leadership contains chapters that range from a focus on helping students examine and develop their own leadership values, vision and goals, to sections dedicated to learning to lead with authenticity, integrity, empathy- and a commitment to the inclusion of all constituents. This is a text for any current or future leader who aspires to become a changemaker in their organization or community and, at its core, is dedicated to establishing the foundational knowledge required to address the many issues that leaders will face, both today and tomorrow.
Suggested citation: Matkin, G. S., Headrick, J., & Sunderman, H. M. (Eds.). (2023). Developing Human Potential: A Personal Approach to Leadership. Department of Agricultural Leadership, Education, & Communication at the University of Nebraska – Lincoln. https://doi.org/10.32873/unl.dc.oth.015.
"Developing Human Potential" is an exemplary resource that thoroughly covers the spectrum of self-leadership applied through a multitude of theories, insightful questions, and application through stories, scenarios, and visual representation. read more
"Developing Human Potential" is an exemplary resource that thoroughly covers the spectrum of self-leadership applied through a multitude of theories, insightful questions, and application through stories, scenarios, and visual representation.
The content within the book is accurate and presented without bias. It is clear that the authors have put in extensive effort to ensure the information is error-free, making it a trustworthy resource for students and educators alike.
This text shines in its contemporary approach, offering content that is not only up-to-date but presented in a manner that will not become obsolete quickly. The structure of the book allows for easy updates, ensuring its relevance and utility for the foreseeable future. The references are recent, showcasing how this book adds to the value of the literature in other areas. I liked the streamlined themes throughout the text.
The book is clear and accessible, making complex concepts understandable without oversimplification. Technical terms and jargon are adequately contextualized, enhancing the learning experience and ensuring clarity for readers from diverse backgrounds, such as the 7-C's which are applied throughout the context of the book.
Throughout the book, there's a commendable consistency in terminology and framework. This internal consistency aids in reinforcing learning and providing a coherent understanding of leadership from the context of leading self, others, and organizations.
The textbook excels in modularity. It is divided into digestible sections, ideal for different teaching and learning paces. The structure supports flexibility in course design, allowing educators to tailor the material to various course subunits without disrupting the narrative flow. I appreciate this as I sometimes skip around depending on the contemporary and relevant nature of the real-world application to the classroom from personal experience (educator or student) or the news within organizations.
The logical organization and clear structure of the textbook facilitate a seamless learning journey. Topics flow naturally, building upon each other in a manner that enhances comprehension and retention.
"Developing Human Potential" is free from significant interface issues. The navigation is intuitive, and visual elements like images and charts are well-integrated, adding value to the text without causing distraction or confusion. I chose to view this text and will be utilizing it for my classroom in the online format. I did not download the pdf.
The text is meticulously edited, with no grammatical errors. This attention to detail in language further contributes to the book's clarity and professionalism.
The textbook is culturally sensitive and inclusive, incorporating a variety of examples that reflect diverse races, ethnicities, and backgrounds in addition to the chapter specific to Diversity and Inclusion. This inclusivity not only avoids cultural insensitivity but also enhances the relatability of the content for a broader audience, aids in self-reflection, and allows others to be aware of perceptional differences.
"Developing Human Potential" is a standout resource in the field, aligning perfectly with the coursework of Management 184. Its objective theory base, complemented by practical application stories, makes the content engaging and relevant. The contemporary nature and readability of the book make it an essential addition to any educational setting focused on leadership and personal development.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- How I See Myself
- Defining My Personal Values
- Definining My Vision & Setting Personal Goals
- Communicating with Leadership Congruence
- Nonverbal Communication & Active Listening in Small Groups
- Developing Trust & Being Trustworthy
- Perceptions are Only From My Point of View
- Diversity & Inclusion
- Meeting the Challenge of Effective Groups & Teams Membership
- Engaging with Empathy
- Managing Conflict Expectations
- Leadership & Civic Engagement: Becoming the Change Maker
Ancillary Material
Submit ancillary resourceAbout the Book
This Online Educational Resource (OER) textbook provides an overview and introduction to personal leadership through the lens of how students can develop and maximize their own interpersonal skills. Interpersonal skills are crucial to navigating the professional world and can help us to better understand ourselves. This textbook approaches interpersonal skills from a personal level and allows the reader to immerse themselves into activities and scholarship across topical areas. Through the text, learners can create their own Personal Leadership Philosophy and expand this into a Civic Leadership Philosophy to help them understand the impact leaders can have on their communities and workplaces.
About the Contributors
Authors
Gina S. Matkin (gmatkin1@unl.edu) holds a PhD in Human Sciences with a Leadership Studies specialization from the University of Nebraska – Lincoln. She is currently a Professor and Coordinator of the undergraduate leadership program in the department of Agricultural Leadership, Education, & Communication at the University of Nebraska – Lincoln. She researches and teaches classes in leadership, particularly related to diversity and inclusion. What she loves most about her work is helping to create inclusive spaces that welcome and encourage both belongingness and uniqueness (true inclusion) and then witnessing how students flourish and thrive when bringing all of who they are into that space – whether it is the classroom, academic advising, mentoring, or casual conversations. In her free time, she loves to garden, hike, spend time in peaceful mountains and forests, and spend time with her wife, Randy, and their amazing rescue felines, Jazzy and Oliver. Most of all, she has much gratitude for life and all creatures (human and otherwise) she encounters.
Jason Headrick (jason.headrick@ttu.edu) is an Assistant Professor of Leadership and Community Development at Texas Tech University in the Department of Agricultural Education & Communications. He received his PhD in Human Sciences with a specialization in Leadership Studies from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. His bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Communications and master’s degree in Community Leadership Development are from the University of Kentucky in his home state. His expertise areas focus on leadership education pedagogy and curriculum, civic leadership and community development, and the role of diversity, equity, and inclusion across agriculture. Dr. Headrick loves the ability to research and impact the ways we engage in leadership across our daily lives and in our communities. When he finds himself with free time, he is either traveling, painting, or hanging with his cats.
Hannah M. Sunderman (hsunderman@vt.edu) earned a PhD in Human Sciences with a Leadership Studies specialization from the University of Nebraska – Lincoln in May 2020. Due to the COVID-19 global pandemic, Sunderman both defended her dissertation and attended her graduate ceremony from her dining room table. She is currently an Assistant Professor in the Department of Agricultural, Leadership, and Community Education at Virginia Tech. Her work is centered on leader and leadership development, seeking to answer the question: What processes and experiences (e.g., being a mentor, formal leadership positions) affect leader and leadership development and why? In the classroom, she loves learning with and from students as we all grow in our understanding of ourselves and our view of leadership. She enjoys running (though not very fast), listening to Taylor Swift, reading all kinds of books, and watching college sports.