Learning Modalities

Flexible program design using a variety of learning modalities

SEEC programs combine a variety of learning modalities to ensure optimal program effectiveness, relevance and learning retention.  Starting with on the job learning as the foundation, elements of relationship and discussion based learning, group learning, and individual learning are incorporated into knowledge infusion sessions.

Day-to-day On The Job Learning

A key component of SEEC’s programs is the practical application of acquired knowledge to further develop business and strategic thinking skills as well as the courage and ability to propose strategic solutions at a very high level.  In addition to relevant examples and case studies, SEEC utilizes an Applied Learning Program (ALP), the 48 hour challenge, and Personal Development Action Plan (PDAP).

Our ALP is a real world assignment, performed in small teams, to challenge and accelerate leadership capabilities. The projects are selected by executive management for their strategic nature, relevance and currency. Teams are expected to utilize the methodologies learned in the program and apply them as they work through their projects, which culminate to a high level presentation to their executive. For shorter programs, the 48 hour challenge is a condensed version of the ALP, with a real life project to be solved and presented within two business days.

PDAPs are personal plans, created by participants, which focus on development targets and the behaviour, skills changes, and specific actions necessary to achieve their goals. On-going coaching provides a dialogue and support to ensure intentions are translated into action.

SEEC’s ‘on the job learning’ approach reinforces participants’ understanding of real-world concepts directly related to your organization and promotes transference from the program to on the job application.

Relationship and Discussion Based Learning

Today’s culture places great emphasis on learning from each other in a social forum setting. Many of our programs are supported by a closed e-community site, which serves as the focal point for social networking related to course material and articles recommended by facilitators or participants, program announcements,
topics relevant to the program, and photos and videos taken at course events.

Peer learning is not restricted to Internet based social networks. SEEC often designs programs where
participants come together in person or via conference calls to share their experiences. Sessions can be led by
participants and may be externally facilitated using a SEEC coach.

Lunch and learn sessions, guest speakers and panel discussions are often incorporated into the program to
stimulate the audience and engage them in concepts, best practices, and strategic understanding of their employer and industry. Wherever possible, we encourage senior executives of the organization to participate as guest speakers.

Formal Learning / Skill Transfer

Many executive educational programs are taught in the ‘classic’ classroom instruction setting. However, adult learning principles suggest that adults learn most effectively through application rather than by lecture.
SEEC incorporates industry professionals experienced in attaining maximum participant engagement using relevant mini-cases, break-out sessions, simulations, role playing and other interactive events to reinforce the concepts being taught. 

For leadership programs, self-assessment tools may be incorporated into the program to identify development targets participants should be working on to achieve their goals. Coaching and mentorship provides motivation in applying knowledge and challenging participants in applying their new knowledge.

Individual Learning

Since many of SEEC’s behaviour related programs require peer interaction to be effective, our individual learning components complement, not replace, formal classroom and group learning. These include Personal Development Action Plans (PDAPs) and self-paced online learning.
Participants create PDAPs to identify development targets and the behaviour, skills changes, and specific actions necessary to achieve their goals. A Schulich coach provides direction for each individual in creating the resolve to work on the plan and turning good intentions into an actionable plan.
The e-learning module is often incorporated to review methodologies, models or frameworks and can be
introduced prior to formal learning so classroom time can focus on application. As a post-program option,
it can serve as a reference tool and reminder of program methodology.
For organizations where employees are geographically dispersed, it may not always be economical or practical to have live events. The e-learning option can extend the classroom to distant locations by supplementing live events with video-conferencing, conference calls, file-sharing, and white boarding.

Group Learning

Peer interaction encourages discussion and reinforcement of newly learned concepts and skills. Small groups of
participants work together on projects, share challenges on their action plans and coach each other.
Groups work on real-world project to practice specific leadership skills and develop business and strategic
acumen. The Applied Learning Program project typically has a strong link to the business direction and current company strategies, issues and opportunities. They are intended to provide sufficient stretch for participants to address strategic issues, require a higher level of thinking, and address a cross functional, business unit, or company perspective.
Participants create small support groups to discuss their Personal Development Action Plans and leadership traits they need to improve on. Individuals share their journey, struggles, successes, and offer advice to each other. A SEEC facilitative coach gently directs conversation, asks questions, and ensures participants stay on topic.

Other Delivery Options

Custom programs benefit large groups within an organization, with programs that align to specific strategic direction, culture and competency requirements. Executive education for smaller groups or individuals may be in line with SEEC’s open enrollment or consortia programs.
Open enrollment offers a wide range of ready-made, highly targeted curriculum in short programs, Learning Path programs, Reach Series, Masters Certificate programs, and Centres of Excellence. Participants can network
and discuss issues with a variety of companies in the same room.
Join a sector-specific program created for a few organizations within the same industry. These consortia programs offer cost savings for small groups, with the value of a tailored or custom-designed program. Participants benefit from trends, related cases and projects related to a specific sector, and networking with similar groups.

Learning Philosophy

SEEC's custom programs utilize the 70-20-10™ Learning Model*, with a focus of business application at its core.

LearningPhilosophy_diagram_sm

Find Out More

For additional information about any SEEC program:

Spotlight

Executive

Schulich Executive Education Centre
Schulich School of Business, York University
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Tel: 416-736-5079
Toll Free in Canada: 1-800-667-9380
Email: execedinfo@schulich.yorku.ca

2013_2014-SEEC-Program-Calendar-coverthumbnail
 

Request Our Calendar

Request a copy of
our current Calendar
of Management & Executive
Education Programs
Or Download the PDF Version
[Large File - 9mb]