U.S. Educators Learning in Peruvian Amazon: Evidence of Leadership Development in Participant Reflections

Abstract

This research study investigated the potential for transformative experiences in nature to foster authentic leadership among U.S. educators, through a narrative exploration of their reflections on a trip to the Peruvian Amazon. Authentic leadership - defined by self-awareness, transparency, and careful listening (van Droffelaar and Jacobs, 2017) - was essential in educational settings for building trust (Ahmed, 2023) and ensuring effective leadership. While existing literature emphasized the influence of significant events on leadership development, there was a lack of research specifically addressing this phenomenon within the context of educational leadership. This study aimed to bridge that gap by examining how the Amazon experience may have constituted a pivotal leadership moment for participating educators. The research was guided by three key questions: 1. In what ways do Amazon participants’ reflections provide evidence that Peru was a momentous event? 2. In what ways do participants’ stories about their personal leadership development reflect their Peru trip experiences? 3. To what extent do participants’ stories of their leadership development relate to Authentic Leadership? Utilizing qualitative methods, this study analyzed de-identified written reflections through content analysis to uncover evidence of the trip’s impact. Additionally, semi-structured interviews with participants provided deeper insights into how their experiences in Peru influenced their leadership practices and alignment with authentic leadership principles. The study was conducted in two parts. Part One analyzed written reflections from fifty two participants collected over three years, revealing the trip to be a profoundly transformative experience marked by emotional intensity, self-reflection, a deep connection to nature and others, and a sense of belonging. Key moments highlighted by participants like canopy walks and cultural exchanges created lasting memories and life-changing insights. Part Two involved interviews with six participants, highlighting how the trip influenced their leadership development. Participants expressed increased self-awareness, alignment with personal values, and intentional reflective practices - key traits consistent with Authentic Leadership theory. Overall the research suggested that immersive, nature-based experiences could significantly foster leadership growth and transformation among Educators.