Leading Change in Higher Education I

Catalog description

The social and political context, the expectations for higher education, and the consumers of post-secondary learning and credentials have evolved significantly over the history of higher education in the US. Further, they have changed dramatically in recent decades, and they continue to do so in ways that deeply impact the operation of our colleges and universities, the student experience, and the outcomes that result. Perhaps the only constant is that ongoing change is necessary for colleges and universities to remain healthy. Why are learning institutions – ostensibly designed to teach evolving knowledge, nurture open-minded curiosity, and model continuous improvement-- so hard to change, even in small ways? What are the leadership skills needed to facilitate change despite institutional inertia? How can we identify and prioritize the changes that are necessary, especially when resources are limited? This course is grounded in research and theory on how higher education leaders, at all levels and in all types of institutions, can lead the change process and overcome stakeholder resistance, with close attention to practical, proven strategies from within and outside of higher education.