Ohio State University researchers found that humility helps teacher group leaders build collaboration and trust among their team members. Research published in the journal Educational Studies.
537 teachers from 238 teacher groups participated in the research. Schools were located in both cities and rural areas. Teachers rated group leaders’ humility on three dimensions: willingness to admit their faults, willingness to acknowledge the strengths of others, and learnability—openness to other teachers’ advice. The results of the analysis showed that teachers who rated their group leaders as more humble were more likely to share their knowledge and experience during group meetings. This is because the risks are minimal, so people are not afraid to prove themselves in the presence of a humble leader.
Teacher groups in many countries are invited to contribute to the professional development of educators through participatory discussions. Such meetings help teachers feel the community and develop their professionalism.
The scientists believe their findings could be useful outside of education as well: leaders, managers and bosses in a variety of fields may want to add some humility to their leadership style.