The Independent Learner: The Key Characteristic in Transformational Leadership.

Overview & Synopsis

The early emergence of nontraditional graduate education programs is traced with particular emphasis on Nova University's Center for Higher Education. Characteristics of the independent learner that are essential in providing transformational leadership are also addressed. Nova University's innovative approaches provide nontraditional choices for a broad range of students. The Center for Higher Education provides a field-based Doctor of Education program for practitioners working in three specialized areas: higher education; leadership in adult education; and vocational, technical, and occupational education. The Center uses a field-based delivery format in combining instruction, independent study, and applied research. Students are required to complete seven seminars, five practicums, and a major applied research project. Five of the seven seminars are core seminars that are required for all students regardless of specialization. The core seminars are: curriculum and program planning, governance and management, applied educational research and evaluation, learning theory and applications, and societal factors affecting education. Specialization seminars are also offered, and two are required of each student choosing that specialization. (SW)