Five Critical Practices
A framework for high-impact learning in asynchronous online leadership development.
Quality instruction is grounded in relationships, communication, accessible content, meaningful connections, and scaffolding. We cannot dismiss online instruction as a barrier, but instead look for innovative ways that we can engage our students and build community.
1. Virtual Learning Community
I intentionally build strong, collaborative learning communities that extend both within and beyond my courses. I create opportunities for learners to engage through discussions, live sessions, and connections with practitioners so they can learn from one another and from real-world leaders.
2. Experiential Learning
I design learning experiences that are grounded in real-world application. Through simulations, role-playing, and scenario-based activities, I help learners practice decision-making and problem-solving in authentic leadership contexts.
3. Gradual Release
I scaffold learning by providing structured support that gradually shifts to independence. I guide learners step-by-step, modeling and supporting their thinking before expecting them to apply concepts on their own in meaningful ways.
4. Voice and Choice
I prioritize learner agency by offering choice in how learners engage with content and demonstrate their understanding. I provide multiple formats and opportunities for reflection so learners can express their thinking in ways that are meaningful to them.
5. Mentorship and Coaching
I extend learning beyond the classroom through mentorship and coaching. I support learners in their professional growth, research, and leadership development, and I value ongoing collaboration as a key part of their success.
The Big Picture
Across all five practices, I design robust, engaging, and meaningful learning experiences within the asynchronous, online environment. I intentionally combine community, application, structure, personalization, and sustained support to ensure that learners are not only actively engaged, but also able to transfer their learning into real-world leadership practice.
I intentionally build strong, collaborative learning communities that extend both within and beyond my courses. I create opportunities for learners to engage through discussions, live sessions, and connections with practitioners so they can learn from one another and from real-world leaders.
2. Experiential Learning
I design learning experiences that are grounded in real-world application. Through simulations, role-playing, and scenario-based activities, I help learners practice decision-making and problem-solving in authentic leadership contexts.
3. Gradual Release
I scaffold learning by providing structured support that gradually shifts to independence. I guide learners step-by-step, modeling and supporting their thinking before expecting them to apply concepts on their own in meaningful ways.
4. Voice and Choice
I prioritize learner agency by offering choice in how learners engage with content and demonstrate their understanding. I provide multiple formats and opportunities for reflection so learners can express their thinking in ways that are meaningful to them.
5. Mentorship and Coaching
I extend learning beyond the classroom through mentorship and coaching. I support learners in their professional growth, research, and leadership development, and I value ongoing collaboration as a key part of their success.
The Big Picture
Across all five practices, I design robust, engaging, and meaningful learning experiences within the asynchronous, online environment. I intentionally combine community, application, structure, personalization, and sustained support to ensure that learners are not only actively engaged, but also able to transfer their learning into real-world leadership practice.