learning_organizations

I rounded out my program with two courses that were like capstones on my HALE experience and provided the richest integration with my work life. The first is EAD801 - Leadership and Organizational Development. Beginning that semester I assumed responsibilities as Acting Director of MSU's Virtual University Design and Technology department. I also participated as a Fellow in MSU's 2007-2008 Executive Leadership Academy which complements my activities in EAD801.

While I was studying learning organizations in EAD802 I found many opportunities to connect the theory and ideas to my professional practice. The format of the course included many hands-on exercises and activities. In addition to providing an introduction to the work scholars such as Peter Senge, Chris Agyris, and Ettienne Wenger there were many practical suggestions offered. The primary text for the course is the fifth discipline field book (Senge, et-al, 1994) which translates Senge (1990) into tangible suggestions and exercises that are broadly relevant to people working in organizations.

Because my interest in the HALE program derived so closely from my work, and I was still unsure which courses were 'required' for the program my next choice as a lifelong learner derived from my professional practice. Working with information technology for MSU's Virtual University means life comes at you fast. We are usually in the middle of a few major technology retooling efforts at any given time.