About learning & teaching

Every classroom is its own community of individual learners; each with their own potential and leaning styles. My role is to facilitate the learning via critical reflections on what is happening around us and this can be expressed in individual research or group projects or via discussions and debates. This also means that I do not see the world of business as a ‘silo’; to tackle the global challenges, I argue for a multidisciplinary, and cross sectoral approach where collaboration is essential. It is one of my goals to ignite the spark of curiosity. For example, as a community of learners and following an intense group discussion around a topic (say ‘how do businesses communicate environmental performance’), we may have opened that one door on this specific topic. However, behind that door, we soon realize that there may be another 5, 20, 50 or 100 doors that are still closed (e.g. Which metrics to communicate? Hence which data to gather and analyse? For which public?). Essential to my teaching approach is guidance and the creation of a space where students are encouraged to share their ideas and take risks. 

Over the years, I have come to understand that teaching is a process of learning from my students, my academic colleagues, and the wider community. Teaching and learning is a lifelong endeavor that requires dedication, determination and diligence. Over time, I discover new strategies, novel ideas and innovative approaches and activities which I integrate in my learning environment.

In general terms, I stand for the inclusion of environmental, social and governance matters into business education. Intergenerational justice where education works as a critical change agent in face of larger societal and environmental challenges is crucial to me. I work with higher education institutions, such as colleges and universities, and those play a central role in the transfer of sustainability-driven knowledge. Considering the nature, purpose, role and impact of trade and commerce in society, businesses are part of the solution to sustainability challenges. 21^st century businesses depend on qualified professionals having sustainable development and management understanding combined with business acumen.

Stay curious.

Prof Dr Willy Legrand