Transform the learning journey in behavioral competency development programs to attain sustainable personal change

Abstract

Behavioral competencies have become the most in-demand skills in the job market, due to their influence on efficacy and personal and organizational performance. Previous studies highlighted the need not only to involve students in programs that focus on the acquisition and improvement of their behavioral repertoire, but also to provide students with techniques to pursue continuous learning during their life span. The paper illustrates the case of an educational project implemented by an Italian University aiming to deliver innovative learning approaches for the development of behavioural competencies. The project encompasses different educational formats (courses, laboratories, seminars) based on interconnected theoretical frameworks, namely the whole person learning pedagogy, experiential learning theory, and the intentional change theory. The methodologies implemented and the outcomes attained in terms of participation, satisfaction, learning and employability of participants are discussed. Implications for instructors and future advancements are discussed.