Learning how to look: developing leadership through intentional observation

Purpose – This paper demonstrates how effectively developing visual skills from observing and analyzing works of art applies in developing leadership skills and examines one application where these artistic skills are viewed as specific thinking skills that are regularly used in new product development. Design/methodology/approach – The lead author adapted a successful collaborative program of the Cincinnati Art Museum and the University of Cincinnati Medical School into a program for doctoral students at Union Institute and University, then taught the course numerous times, recording the results. Findings – The anticipated results were observed, judging from qualitative measures such as instructor and student evaluations. Research limitations/implications – This is a study of one course. To become an accepted practice, further study is needed in similar museum‐based learning situations. Practical implications – At Union, the program has been adapted into a full course and should stimulate others in business, academia, and nonprofits to replicate the program. Originality/value – The use of museum‐based training is widely used in medical training to increase diagnostic skills and empathy. It is less widely practiced in business and we believe this is the first program to adapt a successful medical training program to a successful leadership training program.