Title: Leader effectiveness from self-directed learning and strategic thinking

Authors: Peter L. Zsiga

Addresses: Department of Educational Leadership, Florida Atlantic University, 364 NW Emilia Way, Jensen Beach, FL 34957, USA

Abstract: The levels of self-directed learning readiness, strategic thinking and leader effectiveness in Young Men|s Christian Association (YMCA) directors were measured. The analysis of the 471 responses demonstrated robust correlations between self-directed learning readiness and strategic thinking (r = .58, p < .001). Leader effectiveness correlated similarly and significantly with these two constructs (r = .10, p < .05). These correlations present evidence of positive relationships between self-directed learning levels, strategic thinking levels and leader effectiveness. The relationships between self-directed learning, strategic thinking and leader effectiveness were analysed for moderation by the demographic variables. The respondents| self-identification of their ethnicity as a member of a non-white minority group moderated the correlation between strategic thinking and leader effectiveness.

Keywords: self-directed learning; strategic thinking; leader effectiveness; leadership; nonprofit organisations; human resource development; HRD; leadership development; minorities; learning skills; educational leadership; YMCA directors; ethnicity.

DOI: 10.1504/IJHRDM.2008.019542

International Journal of Human Resources Development and Management, 2008 Vol.8 No.4, pp.306 - 317

Published online: 16 Jul 2008 *

Full-text access for editors Full-text access for subscribers Purchase this article Comment on this article