Our research into contemporary approaches to Vincentian Leadership was conducted primarily as a process of appreciative inquiry—discovering values in behaviors rather than in concepts. Therefore, our research methods were voluntary, collaborative and participatory and occurred within the greater context of leadership development.
Preliminary and in-depth interviews, along
with focus groups, participant observations, and the open-ended questions of
the Vincentian Leadership Assessment (VLAs) instruments were integral
components of our research. From April 2002 to November 2005, the Project team conducted formal (in-depth), semi-structured and informal interviews to
understand and capture current perception and examples of Vincentian leadership
practices.
The qualitative data analysis and reports helped to bridge
contemporary understanding of Vincentian leadership values with the Project's leadership development services aimed at fostering
awareness and value-centered leadership practices.