Leadership Development Among Middle School Students: An Analysis of Impact Through Students’ Perspectives

Students’ leadership is recognized as a vital aspect of the 21st-century skillset and core competencies. Research specifically focusing on leadership cultivation among middle school students, namely those in the middle school stage (grades 7–9), remains scarce. This study examines the cultivation of leadership among Chinese middle school students through a leadership course called ‘Little General Class.’ It analyzes students’ learning outcomes from this course and draws insights for students’ leadership development during the middle school stage. A mixed-methods design was employed. Quantitative data were collected using the Leadership Skills Inventory, administered before and after the two-round leadership course to assess changes in students’ leadership scores. Qualitative data were gathered through observations, self-report surveys, student homework, and interviews to identify students’ learning outcomes in greater depth. The quantitative findings show that students’ leadership skills have not been significantly improved. However, an analysis of the qualitative data reveals that students have achieved learning outcomes in various aspects, such as acquiring theoretical and practical knowledge regarding leadership and class management, enhancing team spirit and social responsibility, and setting new goals while leading by example. Additionally, one-third of the students reported an increase in leadership or management abilities. Based on the experiences and lessons from Little General Class, this study provides insights into effective leadership training for middle school students and underscores the importance of leadership development at this educational stage.