| The study uses the case study methodology to explore a new paradigm of leadership. The Participating Leadership Model is introduced. There are two components to the Participating Leadership Model.; The first component of the model is circular, with three levels of organizational members taking a leadership role. The Participating Leadership Model denotes the recursive and dynamic nature leadership. The second component is the continual learning incline. Leaders and their organizations must continually learn to remain competitive and succeed.; The perceptions of the subjects regarding the ability of the organization to continually learn are examined. The case study of three United States Navy surface ship communities looks at the applicability of the Participating Leadership Model to the communities. Their progress toward recognizing the need for continual learning is explored.; Interviews were the primary source of data. The variables are the vision, empowerment, and personal commitment for the first component of the Participating Leadership Model. The organizational characteristics of utilization of technology, openness and mutual trust, and continual transformation are the variables used to measure the second component of the Participating Leadership Model.; The data were analyzed and presented to address each of the variables. The three case studies were aggregated to identify commonalties and trends. Ratings were assigned by the researcher and an independent rater to improve validity and reliability.; The Participating Leadership Model does apply to the three communities. Each of the case studies had aggregate ratings of at least eight, on a scale of one to ten. Seven recommendations are made based on the findings and conclusions of this investigation. Four of the recommendations have a broader application and should be considered by academics and members of the, business community who want to build their organizational model on other experiences.; The study provides a new graphic model of leadership that can change the frame of reference for those learning, understanding, or teaching the differences between leadership and management. The Participating Leadership Model can be used as a tool to better understand the relationship between leadership and management and the relationship between leadership, learning, and sustained success. |
