Vision
Introduction
Assignment #1 was unique, as it provided me with the opportunity to explore the business side of e-learning through the development of a strategic plan. The focus of my plan was to develop an e-learning consortium specifically targeted for individuals with a developmental disability. This is an area of work that I have a close and personal interest in.
I had spent many years working in the social services field, working in developing case plans, training resources and workshops, targeted at teaching life skills. The ultimate goal of this effort was helping to assist developmentally disabled persons in becoming productive and inclusive members of their respective communities. With this in mind, I believe communities are strengthened, through innovative learning opportunities that are both accessible and adaptable for all learners.
Reflection
Developing a strategic plan provided me with a means of documenting a passion and interest that was organized into a strategic plan while articulating the essential strategic vision. The creation of an innovative online learning solution, specifically supporting individuals with a developmental disability, is a vision that I have had for several years. This assignment provided a wonderful opportunity to express this initiative in a more formal and structured academics setting.
In the past, I had contributed to similar types of strategic planning initiatives. This assignment was much different as I took complete ownership of both the vision and contents of the plan. This required a great deal of planning and preliminary analysis (1.5). As I proceeded through this assignment, I reflected on past experiences and felt empathetic towards my colleagues, who had struggled to produce their own strategic plans (1.5).
The proposal also included an executive summary providing a detailed account of the products and core services. This information provided a concise, yet consolidated account of the vision and scope of the proposed Greater Ottawa E-Learning Consortium (known as GOELC).
While authoring the assignment, I realized the true importance of the executive summary, as it was critical to helping others understand the value of the strategic plan. Creating was a valuable exercise that I would apply in my job responsibilities (3.3). Having both a vision and direction distinguished the innovators from those who are less innovative. Continuing to move forward with purpose is important because “an organization that plans strategically are not therefore preparing for the future, but preparing the future itself” (Haché, 1998)".
Understanding the current market opportunities was a very important element of the strategic plan. For example, as a former social service worker, I am familiar with many of the existing agencies; more importantly I also have a sound understanding of both the available resources, as well as those services that are absent (5.3).
Seeking and understanding of future trends is also an important part of the strategic plan. It was a mandatory assignment criterion to include a market analysis, with a focus on the future. This analysis included research into growth opportunities through evaluation of both current services and future trends (5.3).
All of my research was qualitative in nature, utilizing public information regarding program delivery models. Having the opportunity to seek information sources was again another opportunity to hone my research skills that would prove to be beneficial in my professional life (1.5).
References
Haché, D. (1998). Strategic planning of distance education in the age of teleinformatics. Online
Journal of Distance Learning Administration, 1(2), Summer 1998. State University of West Georgia, Distance Education Center, retrieved from,
http://www.westga.edu/~distance/Hache12.html
In Summary
This assignment was another artifact that provided me with the opportunity to develop my research skills. Furthermore, I believe that I have acquired a better understanding of the pressures that often come with panning and creating a strategic plan. It is a very time consuming process to create a strategic plan that clearly outlines the true vision and benefits.
Throughout the years, I have reflected positively on the knowledge and skills that I have acquired during my participation in this assignment. There is no doubt in my mind that I will continue to apply this valuable knowledge, which in return, has assisted me in both my academic and professional life.
I must confess that I often take for granted how much value that I have gained from this assignment and many others for that matter. When I take the time to truly reflect on my experiences, only then do I realize just how much that I have accomplished.