Team-based learning (TBL) for professional development (PD): optimising everyone’s potential in the workplace

Purpose Based on the proven benefits of team-based learning (TBL) in educational settings, the purpose of this study was to explore its impact on neuroinclusion when applied to professional development (PD). Design/methodology/approach A bespoke model of facilitated coaching and leadership was used over a four-month period and included a two-day immersive TBL Development Centre (TBLDC) for 28 finance leaders. Four participants were identified by facilitators as potentially being neurodivergent, one of whom disclosed their neurodivergence. A retrospective mixed-methods case study used facilitator observations, a red/amber/green (RAG) rating system (n = 28), coded volunteer survey data (n = 13), and semi-structured interviews (SSI) (n = 2) that were lived experience-checked beforehand and member-checked afterwards. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected to explore the neuroinclusive impact of applying TBL within PD. Findings TBL fostered neuroinclusion, enhanced social communication and supported faster assimilation, whilst also cultivating a culture of accountability, respect, inclusive team spirit and a shared drive for confident high performance. When combined with longer term coaching, TBL served as a catalyst for developing a community of practice, empowering individuals on a journey of self-directed growth. It highlighted the transformative potential of an andragogical TBL approach in PD – one that provides equitable opportunities for individuals to progress in their careers. Originality/value This project comprised a bespoke TBLDC incorporated with a research study. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, no other PD settings offered a comparable programme nor were there existing studies examining similar approaches. Sample size was small and self-selected. Further research with psychometric validation for methodological tools is recommended to explore the broader impact of TBL in PD – particularly its effects on neuroinclusion, productivity, workplace culture, employee retention and long-term value for money.