vision for online at su

In 2004, our current Chancellor articulated a vision for the University (Scholarship in Action) based on three areas of focus: 1) faculty excellence and scholarly distinction, 2) access for enterprising students, and 3) engagement with the world.

Imagining the University 10 years from now (within a context of online learning teaching and learning), I would hope to see a more accommodating environment for "non-resident" experiences across the three areas of focus. Faculty excellence and scholarly distinction would require interfacing across academic/thematic clusters in technology-enhanced ways that expand the intellectual richness and potential for future impact -- expanding access to faculty and doctoral/profession students.

Access and support for enterprising students; today we are seeing the early benefits of online undergraduate course offerings that attract excellent students with bold and diverse interests. Ten years from now, formalized and high quality online undergraduate courses will provide the best of these students more options to seize and build upon SU's interdisciplinary and engagement opportunities. Online undergraduate courses also provide greater access for students from all socio-economic and cultural spheres to "come to Syracuse" and experience the creative campus in ways not tied to a physical presence.

Engagement with the world 10 years from now will be, by default, technology-enhanced engagement. Students, faculty and staff will expect immediate engagement with the world and the pressing concerns of the day. In a context of online teaching and learning, even the resident classroom will include different voices and practitioners in fields and industries.

online learning and leadership

I started the Institute for Emerging Leadership in Online Learning (IELOL) program last week. It's a blended-learning leadership development program sponsored by Penn State and the Sloan Consortium. Very promising from a strategic perspective.

One assignment during the first week I found interesting had to do with our view of the essential elements of leadership. I found myself falling back on comfortable territory, but I don't think I was too far afield. Here are my thoughts:

I believe the most essential element of effective leadership is open and honest communication. Regardless of the leadership development model (I’m certain we’ve all seen many), communication is either a hub competency or critical component of other leadership competencies (navigator, facilitator, strategist, etc.). In some ways it seems rather obvious; how can I be an effective leader if I cannot communicate organizational and operational concepts (the good, bad and neutral) in such a way that they are understood to be truthful and in the best interest of the institution and the populations we serve?

Listening is also an essential element of effective leadership. Good communicators listen. Listening is a great way to learn – to actually hear the concerns, perspectives, expectations and needs of the people we work with and for. We demonstrate a commitment to the group and the institution by showing a real interest in our colleagues’ voices, skills, and talents, and using what we learn from them to help shape the direction and future of the institution.

That's nothing revolutionary, but I'm pretty well committed an emphasis on open and honest communication in all aspects of life. Seems pretty tough to get by without it.