How Learning Occurred in a Group Leadership Education Program – The Importance of “Ba”, “Omoi”, and Psychological Safety

This research confirms that incorporating concepts of Ba and Omoi with action research promotes higher levels of learning. Currently, action research, Ba, and Omoi are understudied in military institutions and college programs. Using a case study approach and two cycles of action research, this project addressed how learning occurred for students and instructors in a two-term program at a military university. Findings showed how Ba and Omoi were integral in establishing a psychologically safe learning environment, learning and growth occurred on multiple levels for students and instructors as they struggled with imposter phenomenon, and students struggled with negative capability.