Course Description as presented by Professor Dave Thomas in the course syllabus:

 

The Organizational Leadership Pro-Seminar is six credit hours divided into two specific sections.  In Pro-Seminar I, students draw on their experiences in previous Organizational Leadership courses, employing key concepts, theories, and skills learned throughout the program toward the strategic analysis of organizations.  Using Bolman & Deal’s organizational frames concept, students will synthesize key learnings across their education and explore organizations through four unique perspectives.

 

Category

Required Learning Outcomes

Organizational Analysis Using Multiple Perspectives / Frames

 

• Apply theoretical frames/lenses (e.g. Structural, Human Resource, Political, and Symbolic) as tools through which to understand organizational dynamics and develop a schema and language for problem solving. (Each frame has its own learning objectives.)

• Demonstrate understanding of the four frames as a way to organize apparently “conflicting” organizational theory and leadership prescriptions.

• Apply each frame individually to a relevant organizational example from their lives

• Demonstrate the ability to identify applicable frame(s) and re-frame a situation to increase understanding or communication effectiveness

• Identify when and how frames overlap to be able to integrate or dis-integrate them in useful ways.

 

Synthesis, Assessment, and Transfer of Learning

• Reflect carefully on your academic career to date

• Synthesize key learnings throughout your academic career

• Summarize and collect artifacts representative of your accomplishments

• Assess the structure and nature of a significant learning experience

 

Documentation & Presentation of Key Learnings

• Develop (or employ) technical skills and technology-based tools, including website design and publishing, in support of the development of an academic and professional e-portfolio.

• Demonstrate project management, design, and creativity skills through the development of your e-portfolio.

• Describe and illustrate key knowledge and skills (gained through the Organizational Leadership Program), including the presentation of artifacts and reflective writing.

• Develop a deeper understanding of learning theory, and how key knowledge and skills can be effectively showcased in an online environment.

• Demonstrate a variety of communication skills and best practices with respect to electronic portfolio development.