This course focuses on students’ acquisition of basic knowledge of the philosophy of science, including the review and critique of concepts and theories. Qualitative and quantitative bases for inquiry are introduced. Ethical, social, and political components of conducting research are examined. Quantitative based concepts include experimental, survey, and existing action research. The qualitative based concepts include case study, grounded theory, and ethnography. Assignments consist of knowledge demonstration and problem-solving for professional practice. Course assignments will emphasize the practical application of writing and critical-thinking skills and the integration of professional application at the doctoral level.

In today’s business environment, change is a given. This course will look at systems thinking and how to look at systems more holistically to determine what changes are needed. Systems thinking is rooted in the biotic environment and there is much that can be learned from nature and how it adapts to change. Adaptive leadership is about having a vision for what changes need to occur to adapt to a new system. It is about including others and their experiences and input in order to promote change and having empathy in the process. Adaptive leadership is about experiments and taking calculate risks and then finding solutions where everyone benefits.