Chapter 3 – Method This study utilizes a research design intended to examine the differences
between those who possess certain character traits and their ability to enact
effective leadership practices. This chapter describes the sample from which the
data were collected, the instruments utilized in the data collection, and the
procedures used for this study.
Sample This study utilized a sample to assess the relationship between character and
transformational leadership effectiveness that consisted of 334 individuals
preparing for ministry leadership. These individuals were seminary students and
group leaders involved in a program of spiritual formation at a major evangelical
seminary. This program requires participation in group meetings and activities for 2
years. Participation in the program at this institution is only required of students in
two degree programs: the Master of Theology (ThM) and the Master of Arts in
Christian Education (MA CE) programs. These two programs have been designed
to prepare students for full-time vocational Christian ministry. Participation by
students in other programs at the institution is voluntary. Enrollment in the spiritual
formation program comprises approximately 60% of the entering student
enrollment at the institution’s main campus each year.
Students are assigned to spiritual formation groups based on certain
demographic factors such as marital status, age, ministry background, and class
schedule. Group size ranges from 4 to 10 individuals, including the group leader.
Student peers who have previously completed the program are the primary leaders
of these groups, although a small number of group leaders are institutional faculty
and staff. Some spiritual formation groups are composed of students and spouses.
However, this study only considered groups in which student spouses were not
group participants. Additionally, only those groups that hold meetings at the
institution’s main campus were included in this sample, though additional groups
meet at other extension locations and at local churches. These excluded groups
Character for Leadership 44
represent approximately 33% of the total spiritual formation group population
(participants and leaders) at the institution.