PDGIA Virtual Conference 2021

Appreciative Inquiry (Ai)  is a strengths-based approach to organizational development that has gained currency as an alternative to the classical deficit-based approach. There are numerous examples of its highly successful application as a tool of Organizational Development (OD). In this research study, Ai is applied to a diverse group of students in undergraduate non-specialist Economics classrooms to verify its effectiveness in the teaching-learning process. The objective of this paper to examine the pedagogical use of Ai in teaching and validate its utility in economics courses. Moreover, the specific objective is to find out challenges and opportunities when using Ai in classrooms. The approach is applied to five sections of Economics classes at Yorkville University, British Columbia Campus, Canada. Students, in each section were divided into small groups-the four phases of the Ai Cycle (Discovery, Dream, Design and Destiny) were then applied to each student group. Each group discovered their strengths, shared their dreams for an ideal class, designed a collective vision/plan as to how to achieve their objectives and started implementing the plan. It was found that Ai increased students’ engagement, confidence, attendance, commitment, and improved the overall academic environment in the class and enhanced student success. We conclude therefore that universities and academic institutions can utilize this rapidly evolving and popular tool of organizational development to positively impact educational outcomes in the classroom.