Let's Sculpt It!: Experiencing the Role of Organizational Context in Coaching. (June 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Fatien Diochon, Pauline; Otter, Ken; Stokes, Paul; Van Hove, Lucy
• Is Part Of: Management teaching review. Volume 6:Number 2(2021)
• Page Start: 175
• Page End: 189
• Publication Date: 2021-06
• Subjects: coaching -- systems theory -- complexity -- executive education -- management consulting -- reflexivity -- transformative learning -- experiential exercises; Management -- Study and teaching -- Periodicals; Executives -- Training of -- Periodicals; Organizational behavior -- Study and teaching -- Periodicals; 658.007
• DOI: 10.1177/2379298119833692
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2379-2981

Abstract

This exercise aims to familiarize students with the underdiscussed topic of the role of context in coaching through a physical activity. It consists of a group sculpture—a combination of socio-drama, systemic constellation, and social presencing theater—drawing from a coaching case of an ethical dilemma, using the placement and arrangement of participants to represent the stakeholders and context (economic, legal, sociological, etc.). The visual and embodied representation aims to raise awareness and develop understanding of the invisible—but often felt—contextual factors at play in coaching, to generate reflection about their influence, and to offer insights on how to identify and embrace them. This activity is primarily aimed for coaching educators and supervisors, but a slightly adapted version could expand its benefits to a more general audience of managers and leaders.