Course Description:
In the courses “Foundations of Organizational Leadership” students will establish a solid foundation in theories and models of leadership, exploring various leadership styles, ethical considerations, and the impact of leadership on organizational success and social change. (This coursework unfolds over three sequential modules (LEAD 671a, 671b, 671c).
The course will begin by sharing an overview of leadership models that have been developed as we evolved from an agrarian society to one with manufacturing and industrialization, to the corporate office setting to virtual team leadership. We will focus on the organizational system, the organizational life cycle, designing and following strategy, DEI and how to assess culture and manage change. Leadership is in part exercised through working with teams. We will focus on models for effective, engaging and collaborative teamwork within a group and across functions. The final part of the course will focus on the power individual leaders have to shape organizational culture. We will focus on the leader as an instrument of change, exploring strengths, development areas, shadow and purpose. Throughout the course we pay attention to the interconnectedness and interdependence between the the leader, the team and the organization. The course will be a blend of theory and practice, and students will be continually asked to link their learning to their work experience. Prior to each meeting, students will be prepared to discuss their insights from the foundational and current texts, as well as their potential practical application within the systems in which they operate.
Throughout all three modules, there will be a deep emphasis on the importance of continually taking a strategic viewpoint, balancing people and projects, ethical considerations and the impact of leadership on organizational success and social change.
Course Objectives:
Students enrolled in this course will:
Understand the evolution of management styles from the industrial revolution to current day best practices with virtual leadership
Explore Leadership Styles and Ethical Considerations: Students will explore different leadership styles and the ethical considerations involved in leadership roles.
Analyze the Impact of Leadership on Organizational Success and Social Change: Students will examine how leadership influences organizational success and contributes to social change.
Understand Organizational Systems and Life Cycles: Students will gain insights into organizational systems, life cycles, and the importance of designing and following strategic plans.
Assess and Manage Organizational Culture and Change: Students will learn how to assess organizational culture, manage change, and implement diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives.
Develop Team Leadership Skills: Students will focus on models for effective, engaging, and collaborative teamwork within groups and across functions.
Shape Organizational Culture as Leaders: Students will understand the power of individual leaders to shape organizational culture and act as instruments of change.
Link Theory to Practice: Students will continually link theoretical learning to their work experiences, discussing insights from foundational and current texts and their practical applications.
Adopt a Strategic Viewpoint: Students will emphasize the importance of taking a strategic viewpoint, balancing people and projects, and considering ethical implications in leadership decisions.
Foster Interconnectedness and Interdependence: Students will appreciate the interconnectedness and interdependence between the leader, the team, and the organization.