Response KEV
Throughout the eight weeks, my perspective of the DSL program has changed. Before beginning the program, I was in a generalist program in public administration. The DSL program was categorized in the same classification as the public administration general studies. The study of strategic leadership is less generalized and more focused on how to lead. My pre-suppositions were pleasantly interrupted with the specific prescription of learning and application. I understand further why God moved to change my academic placement. It seemed like a waste to transfer as late as I did from the other university. I now have a stronger understanding of the macro system in public administration, which will compliment becoming focused on leadership and followership.
Surprising learning moments
One surprising finding was the ability to directly apply today's learning to present work conditions in my agency (Zuber-Skerritt, O., & Abraham, S., 2017). I learned new ways to communicate leader/follower ideas and introduce new diagrams and language with my teams. In the child and adult protective industry (at least in North Carolina), no remedial or advanced training exists for leaders. As such, there is a struggle to put words and work processes together that transcend the vernacular of the system (Vackova, D.C., C. K., Lui, J. N. M., & Johnston, J. M,2018).
A second was passing my education down to my leadership. As I read articles and text, I was able to find those gems (diagrams, common language used in leadership fields, and explain why some successes were missed). I believe I can describe the challenges we are facing in protective services. The theory and concepts of strategic leadership have begun to expand my knowledge of different types of leadership and follower relationships. Understanding gained by reading and rigorous study of the phenomena is sharpening my critical thinking skills to apply to mend bridges where the state and county relationship has languished in discontent for several years. Leadership is not a one size fits all idea. Except for Jesus, of course, He may be the only one size fits all leader.
Three keys to further success in the DSL program
Planning is a way of life. Every day I thought, read, jotted notes down to keep the assignments fresh in the current week. I also looked ahead some to know what was next. Each week I set time in the evening to be in the course room. I spent more time reading articles. It takes time to select journal articles that relate directly to the assignment. As such, I had to learn to plan for my planning time as well. I am finding that I ingest a large amount of information and then I can sit and write everything out.
Seek purpose in today's lesson. Each week's lesson I would try to find the meaning in why I am learning this at this time. I would use that in my prayers and also seek to find areas of possible application to what was happening at work. I was also able to use some examples in a class I teach at church. Finding multiple purposes in the weekly learning is helping retain it.
Pray to understand how God is equipping me and to know what I am learning. I do not pray enough. I talk with God and a regular basis, and I genuinely believe as Richard Frame says that we should learn to pray with our eyes open. As such, I am learning to pray about understanding what God is going to do through me with the DSL. I also need Him to help me understand the content and how to apply it.
What worked and didn't work in learning this term
The responding and receiving responses from classmates were helpful. I could see the interest, intent, and attention in each reply. They were all well thought out and motivated further thought for me. Dr. Jones' direct feedback in assignments worked. I have a clear understanding of where I need to pay attention to writing mechanics as well as APA adherence. She was specific and thoughtful in responses. I have realized many of my mistakes are rushing through and not proofreading enough. Writing is an iterative process.
Trying to stick to my blocked off time for school work rigidly did not work. The times I blocked off was continually moving around most weeks. That is where planning for my planning may come in handy. I was able to stick to the time allotment I needed. It was just rationed differently from the rigid schedule I originally mapped out.
Time management