Introduction Leadership skills are crucial in the retail industry, particularly in South Africa, where the sector faces significant skills challenges. The South African retail industry employs 21 per cent of the national workforce but suffers from a skills gap at the managerial level (Buthelezi, 2020; Wholesale & Retail SETA, 2021). Developing leadership skills among retail students is vital for preparing future leaders who can navigate the complexities of this industry. At the University of Johannesburg (UJ), innovative teaching practices have been implemented to enhance leadership skills among retail students, aligning with UJ’s strategic goals of Excellence in Teaching and Learning, an Enriching Student-Friendly Learning and Living Experience, and Fitness for Global Excellence and Stature (University of Johannesburg, 2024). Background Higher education institutions (HEIs) play a critical role in addressing the skills gap by fostering student management and leadership competencies. Traditional teaching methods often struggle to convey the abstract nature of leadership effectively. Thus, innovative, technology-enhanced teaching strategies are essential to bridge this gap and prepare students for realworld challenges (Frazer, 2023; Hastings et al., 2018; Magano et al., 2020). Technology-Enhanced Teaching Strategies Technology-enhanced teaching (TET) refers to the use of digital tools and innovative pedagogical approaches to support and improve student learning experiences in HEIs. TET can benefit teaching at HEIs by creating engaging, interactive, and personalised learning environments that cater to diverse student needs and preferences, thereby enhancing student motivation and participation (Blau et al., 2020; Serrano et al., 2019). Additionally, TET facilitates the development of higher-order cognitive skills, such as critical thinking and problem-solving, through active learning and real-world application of concepts (Dunn & Kennedy, 2019). The strategic integration of technology in teaching can lead to improved educational outcomes and better preparation of students for the complexities of the modern workforce (Oke & Fernandes, 2020). By integrating TET into the retail curriculum, several innovative pedagogies have been implemented among final-year retail students, including the use of an audiobook, personal leadership journals, online leadership assessments, simulations, and role-playing games. These strategies are designed to develop critical leadership skills, promote self-awareness, and prepare students for the complexities of the retail industry. Audiobook: Dare to Lead by Brené Brown The audiobook “Dare to lead” (2018) by Brené Brown was integrated into the curriculum to introduce students to practical leadership strategies. Audiobooks are known for their engaging narration and practical insights, helping students connect with leadership concepts on a deeper level. The audiobook format allows for flexible learning, making it accessible and convenient for students (Frazer, 2023). This approach aligns with the need for innovative teaching methods to effectively convey abstract leadership concepts. Pedagogical Leadership Interventions Retail Resolve: Role-playing game Audiobook: Dare to Lead by Brené Brown Online leadership simulation Online personal leadership journal Teaching Innovation for the 21st Century | Showcasing UJ Teaching Innovation Projects 2024 22
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