How Strategic Planning Can Foster Organizational Learning in Higher Education Institutions

• In Event: Roundtable Session 3
  In Roundtable Session: The Art and Practice of Leadership in Learning Organizations

Abstract

This study seeks to understand how strategic planning processes can foster organizational learning in higher education institutions. The case study focuses on a community college that had implemented an innovative planning technique – appreciative inquiry – for the first time. The resulting process generated learning at the organization-wide level, as evidenced through changes in practices related to accreditation, professional development, and shared governance. Study participants noted that the organizational learning process, triggered by strategic planning, led to higher levels of effectiveness and better relations between faculty and administrators. However, interviews revealed that the process also brought to the surface issues and tensions around diversity and student success that remain contentious and unresolved.

Authors

• Jay R. Dee, University of Massachusetts - Boston

• Kate Bresonis, University of Massachusetts - Boston

• Anne M. DeFelippo, Salem State University