The development of communication skills and transferable skills through embodied and experiential learning

Promoter

Greet Angèle De Baets

Researcher

Greet Angèle De Baets

Time span of the project

2025 – Onwards

Keywords

Embodied pedagogy, experiential learning, transferable skills, development, ethnography, martial arts studies, aikido

Description

This project builds on the findings of doctoral research into the embodied pedagogy of aikido as a form of experiential learning. It explores how aikido-based methods can foster the development of communication skills and key transferable skills across a wide range of professional and educational settings.

The preceding doctoral project, completed in November 2024, was conducted at Ghent University (Belgium) under the supervision of Professor Ellen Van Praet, with co-supervision by Professors Sofie Decock and Andreas Niehaus. Throughout the project, Greet was affiliated with the MULTIPLES Research Centre for Multilingual Practices and Language Learning in Society.

Aikido, a Japanese martial art centred on harmony and non-resistance, offers a dynamic and relational model of learning that engages the body, mind, and context. When used pedagogically, aikido provides a powerful framework for navigating complex interactions shaped by difference, power, and uncertainty. Through structured movement, mutual responsiveness, and embodied presence, participants cultivate skills that extend far beyond the dojo or training room.

This project positions embodied pedagogy and experiential learning as essential pathways for developing communication skills and transferable skills identified by the OECD, including:

• Engaging with others
• Collaboration
• Emotion regulation
• Self-management
• Open-mindedness

The research has shown that aikido-informed training can strengthen communication and cooperation within and across teams, facilitate more attuned leadership and negotiation practices, and enhance intercultural sensitivity and strategic thinking. These applications span sectors such as business, education, human resources, conflict resolution, peacebuilding, and diplomacy.

By developing and testing aikido-informed training modules, the project offers concrete tools and frameworks for facilitators, educators, and trainers across disciplines: It bridges theory and practice in skill development.

At the core of this project lies the conviction that communication skills and transferable skills must be grounded in more than abstract knowledge. Instead of focusing solely on theoretical models, this project prioritises embodied, experiential learning as vital pathways to developing skills for meaningful, context-sensitive communication. In a time marked by complexity and division, individuals and organisations need more than competence; they need calm, clarity, empathy, and integrity in action.

Ultimately, the project contributes to advancing a practice-informed understanding of skill development. It moves beyond traditional paradigms of knowledge transmission to foster the emergence of mature communicators: individuals who are able to navigate uncertainty, build connection, and exercise sound judgement. These are professionals equipped not only to perform effectively within their immediate roles but also to respond to the ethical and relational challenges in today’s society.