Leadership development is a crucial element for organisations looking to navigate today’s complex issues and achieve sustained success. Traditional methods can sometimes feel static, failing to engage leadership students or promote deep learning. However, LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® (LSP) offers a dynamic, experiential process that transforms how we think about leadership development and cultivates leadership potential through active participation and 3D models built from LEGO® bricks.
What is LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY®?
LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® is an innovative facilitation tool used in leadership studies, especially in training programs designed for leadership students and experienced leaders. It’s a structured, interactive learning experience that uses physical bricks to engage participants.
During these sessions, participants build brick models that represent their leadership styles, beliefs about leadership, or responses to complex issues. The hands-on nature of LSP promotes a deeper understanding and helps leadership students and experienced managers develop practical solutions to real- world challenges.
The Theory Behind LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY®
Constructivism and Constructionism
At the heart of LSP is a combination of theory from constructivism and constructionism, developed by Jean Piaget and further advanced by Seymour Papert. These theories argue that learning occurs best through the construction of physical objects—what is known as ‘hands-on knowledge.’
This approach provides a basis for knowledge exchange where participants engage in practice-based learning. By using LEGO® bricks, participants can visualise their thought processes and build a deeper understanding of leadership dynamics.
Johan Roos and Cognitive Development
LSP was co-created by Johan Roos and Bart Victor as a response to traditional leadership literature’s limitations. They developed this method as a cognitive development tool, enhancing our understanding of leadership through 3-dimensional thinking.
By moving beyond 2D concepts, leaders can use LSP to visualise business models, strategy development, and the art of leadership storytelling, making it a powerful tool for business managers and project managers.
Developing Leadership Skills Through Play
Leadership Styles and Effective Communication
Understanding various leadership styles is essential for effective communication.
During LSP workshops, participants engage in exercises that require them to build models representing different styles, whether it’s participatory leadership or directive leadership. This process enhances communication and helps participants learn to adapt their approach to business meetings or business ethics discussions.
Building Cohesive Teams
One of the primary learning outcomes of LSP workshops is team development. By focusing on building cohesive teams, leaders learn how to foster trust and manage difficult conversations. Whether in a team visioning session or a team coaching session, the use of LEGO® bricks helps team members understand each other’s perspectives, promoting bonding to leadership development. The bricks act as a vehicle for brave conversations, encouraging active engagement in solving affect-laden professional issues.
Strategic Planning and Creative Thinking
Creative Solutions for Complex Problems
LSP is a powerful leadership tool for problem-solving. By using brick constructions, leaders can explore creative solutions to complex business challenges.
This approach enables leaders to step outside the box of traditional thinking and engage in what is often referred to as ‘lean-forward’ environments. The process not only enhances cognitive development but also helps leaders gain key insights into strategic planning, encouraging them to be effective leaders who can adapt to changing circumstances.
Vertical Leadership and Reflection
LSP also supports the concept of vertical leadership, which focuses on developing leaders who can think and act at higher levels of complexity.
Reflection papers and attention in reflection sessions are integral to this process. After each LSP activity, leaders reflect on their models and engage in discussions that solidify their learning. This reflection-based approach helps leaders internalise the lessons and apply them in their roles, whether in management teams or broader organisational contexts.
Applications in Training Programs
Workshop Experience and Duration
LSP workshops can be customised to suit a wide range of needs, from short 1-4 hour workshops to more intensive sessions. These workshops are structured to deliver maximum impact within a limited timeframe.
The experiential learning nature of these workshops makes them a valuable asset in business environments. The hands-on approach is particularly effective in virtual training programs, where interactive multimedia elements can further enhance the learning process.
Advanced Techniques and Workshop Applications
Facilitation skills are crucial for the success of LSP workshops. Facilitators undergo rigorous training, including Coaching Training and advanced training, to master the nuances of LSP. The combination of background theory with practical application ensures that participants experience a balanced and engaging learning environment.
From understanding team dynamics to applying effective facilitation techniques, these sessions equip leaders with the tools needed to navigate complex organisational challenges.
Interactive Learning and Leadership Development
Basis for Knowledge Exchange
The participatory nature of LSP ensures 100-100 participation, where every participant contributes to the discussion.
This makes the method particularly effective for student leadership development. By building models in response to real-world scenarios, participants gain hands-on knowledge and learn how to create action plan insights. This approach to leadership training transforms passive learners into active contributors.
Practices of Leadership Educators
Leadership educators often use LSP to teach instructional strategies that are both engaging and effective. The interactive process fosters deeper learning and enhances the learning process by incorporating a broad range of leadership concepts. For example, educators can design workshops that explore the intersection of team communication, business ethics, and strategic development.
The result is a comprehensive leadership program that prepares leaders for a wide range of challenges.
Conclusion: Why LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY®?
LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® stands out as a powerful tool in the realm of leadership development. From enhancing team communication to facilitating brave conversations and strategic thinking, the method has proven benefits. Whether you are an experienced leader or a student of leadership studies, the LSP method offers an experiential learning experience that is both impactful and memorable.
For more insights into how LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® can transform your organisation’s leadership development, visit Serious Play Business.
