Empowering future business leaders: integrating icf coaching competencies in undergraduate education

Abstract

In recent years, coaching has gained recognition as a powerful developmental tool in various professional fields, including business education. This study explores the implementation of coaching techniques to develop the 8 core competencies defined by the International Coach Federation (ICF) in undergraduate Business Administration students. By integrating coaching methodologies into the curriculum, the research aims to enhance students' professional skills and prepare them for the dynamic challenges of the business world. The study employs a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews to assess the impact of coaching interventions on students' competency development. Data were collected from a cohort of final-year Business Administration students who participated in a semester-long coaching program. The findings reveal significant improvements in students' abilities across the ICF competencies, particularly in areas such as active listening, powerful questioning, and facilitating growth. Challenges encountered during implementation included initial resistance to self-reflection, varying levels of student engagement, and the need for faculty training in coaching techniques. The results support the effectiveness of coaching as a pedagogical strategy in business education, equipping future professionals with essential soft skills and a growth mindset. This study contributes to the growing body of literature on innovative teaching methods in higher education and offers practical insights for educators seeking to integrate coaching principles into business curricula.