EDU 902: Strategic Planning and Organizational Development

Course Title: EDU 902: Strategic Planning and Organizational Development
Subtitle: Leading Change and Innovation in Christian Education
Course Name & Level: Strategic Planning and Organizational Development, Doctoral Level
Number of Credit Hours: 3 Credit Hours
Keywords: Strategic Planning, Organizational Development, Christian Education

Introduction:
This course explores advanced principles and practices in strategic planning and organizational development within the context of Christian education. Students will develop skills to lead change, foster innovation, and achieve sustainable growth in educational institutions.

Course Description:
EDU 902 provides an in-depth study of strategic planning and organizational development, equipping students with tools to lead and manage educational change effectively. The course integrates biblical teachings with contemporary strategies to enhance the growth and impact of Christian educational institutions.

Course Purpose:
To equip students with advanced skills in strategic planning and organizational development, promoting effective leadership and sustainable growth in Christian education.

Course Objectives:
To develop proficiency in strategic planning and organizational development practices, fostering innovation and transformation in educational contexts.

Key Terms Defined & Key Concepts Explained:

• Strategic Planning: The process of defining an organization’s strategy and making decisions on allocating resources to pursue this strategy (Proverbs 16:3).
• Organizational Development: A planned, systematic approach to improving organizational effectiveness and achieving goals (Ephesians 4:15-16).
• Change Management: The process of guiding an organization through transitions and transformations effectively (Ecclesiastes 3:1).
• Innovation: The introduction of new ideas, methods, or products to improve an organization (Isaiah 43:19).
• Sustainable Growth: Achieving long-term growth and development while maintaining the organization’s mission and values (Philippians 1:6).

Specific Topics with Descriptions:

1. Biblical Foundations for Strategic Planning:
   Exploring the scriptural basis for strategic planning and its importance in achieving organizational goals (Proverbs 16:9).
2. Developing a Strategic Vision:
   Techniques for creating and articulating a clear and compelling vision for the future (Habakkuk 2:2-3).
3. Strategic Analysis and Environmental Scanning:
   Methods for assessing the internal and external environment to inform strategic planning (Nehemiah 2:11-18).
4. Formulating and Implementing Strategic Plans:
   Steps for developing and executing strategic plans to achieve organizational objectives (Proverbs 21:5).
5. Leading Organizational Change:
   Approaches to leading and managing change within an educational context, grounded in biblical principles (Ecclesiastes 3:1).
6. Fostering Innovation in Education:
   Strategies for encouraging creativity and innovation to enhance educational effectiveness (Isaiah 43:19).
7. Building and Sustaining Effective Teams:
   Techniques for creating and sustaining teams that support strategic goals (Ephesians 4:11-13).
8. Evaluating Organizational Performance:
   Methods for assessing and improving the effectiveness of educational institutions (Philippians 1:6).
9. Ethical and Moral Considerations in Strategic Planning:
   Addressing ethical and moral issues related to strategic planning and organizational development (Micah 6:8).
10. Case Studies in Strategic Planning and Organizational Development:
    Analyzing real-world examples to apply learned principles and strategies (Acts 6:1-7).

Assessments with Descriptions:

1. Research Paper:
   A 15-20 page paper on a selected aspect of strategic planning or organizational development, integrating scriptural references and scholarly research (Psalm 119:105).
2. Case Study Analysis:
   Analyzing a case study involving strategic planning, providing biblically-based solutions (James 1:5).
3. Strategic Plan Development:
   Creating a detailed strategic plan for a Christian educational institution, demonstrating the integration of theological principles and practical elements (Proverbs 16:3).
4. Exams and Quizzes:
   Assessing knowledge and understanding of course materials through periodic exams and quizzes (Proverbs 4:7).
5. Class Participation:
   Active engagement in class discussions, demonstrating comprehension and application of strategic planning and organizational development principles (Hebrews 10:24-25).

Research References:

1. Malphurs, Aubrey. Advanced Strategic Planning: A 21st-Century Model for Church and Ministry Leaders. Baker Books, 2013. eBook.
2. Kotter, John P. Leading Change. Harvard Business Review Press, 2012. eBook.
3. Sinek, Simon. Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action. Portfolio, 2009. eBook.
4. Maxwell, John C. The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership: Follow Them and People Will Follow You. Thomas Nelson, 2007. eBook.
5. Cameron, Esther, and Mike Green. Making Sense of Change Management: A Complete Guide to the Models, Tools, and Techniques of Organizational Change. Kogan Page, 2019. eBook.

The course centers on King Jesus, His Kingdom, His Holy Spirit, His Royal Family, and His Great Commission as stated in Matthew 28:18-20.