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The problem and the solution. One of the most popular movie series for all ages is Harry Potter, based on the books by J. K. Rowling. The fourth movie in the series, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, offers lessons in decision making, risk, power, and ethics. In addition to a general discussion of the use of movies and leadership development, this article explores the use of a very popular movie in teaching leadership theory. Champoux (1999) states, "Film scenes can offer a visual portrayal of abstract theories and concepts." Movies capture the leadership moments, allowing learners to better understand the lessons being taught. In addition to a general discussion of the use of movies and leadership development, this article explores the use of a very popular movie in teaching leadership theory.
Keywords: transformational leadership; situational leadership theory; power; popular film
Leadership development is a unique aspect of human resource development (HRD) because it is important to both scholars and practitioners and is a common thread among the foundational areas of the discipline. It can also be one of the most difficult components to teach. It is one thing to understand the theories of leadership, but it is another to be able to apply and know how to use these theories. As two leadership educators described, "Students have a tendency to become easily confused and bored when faced with this material in a classroom situation" (Harrington & Griffin, 2001). Leadership is like many other topics in HRD, because there are complex situations dealing with human beings. There are opportunities for variation, which cause confusion for most learners who like to know the right answer and when to use it.
Leadership is best learned in the moment, and creating these moments can be difficult; however, these moments have been captured in simulation and case studies and now can be created using film (movies). The richness of popular culture artifacts creates an avenue where learners can associate leadership theory because of a greater feeling of reality (Champoux, 1999). Films create a fun and beneficial way for learners to grasp the concepts of leadership.
One of the most popular movie series for all ages is Harry Potter, based on the books by J. K. Rowling....