ADEPT Research Projects
Kurt Lewin, the founder of modern social psychology, once said, "There is nothing so practical as a good theory." The Administrator Development, Education, and Professional Training program subscribes to Lewin's philosophy and believes in evidence-based organizational development. ADEPT programs are planned with existing theoretical and empirical research in mind. Original ADEPT research projects are conducted to gather School of Medicine specific data that will ultimately inform the design of organizational and professional development experiences for administrators. Research projects currently being planned or pursued include:
- ADEPT Appreciative Inquiry Project: Phase I
- ADEPT Appreciative Inquiry Project: Phase II
- Administrator Social Networking Analysis
- Annual Administrator Survey
ADEPT Appreciative Inquiry Project: Phase I (planned for 12/08 - 03/09)
Appreciative inquiry (AI) is the study of what works well in organizations. AI focuses organizations on their most positive qualities and leverages those qualities to enhance the organization. During Phase I of the ADEPT AI Project, administrators will identify and share experiences of when they felt most successful, competent, and engaged professionally. The interviews will also explore "what might be" as administrators are asked to envision processes and programs that will promote success, competence, and professional engagement. The goals of Phase I are to amplify positive aspects of work life and collect "best-case" stories upon which to build the future. As the participants in this AI project, administrators play the central role in generating meaningful ideas and actions that will ultimately create a culture of mentoring, learning, and collaboration. The overarching goal of the ADEPT AI Project is to ensure the development, success, and retention of exceptional administrators.
ADEPT Appreciative Inquiry Project: Phase II (planned for 04/09 - 07/09)
Appreciative inquiry (AI) is the study of what works well in organizations. AI focuses organizations on their most positive qualities and leverages those qualities to enhance the organization. Upon completion of Phase I of the ADEPT AI Project, a Design Award will be submitted to the Appreciative Inquiry Leadership Team to secure funding for Phase II of the ADEPT AI Project. Phase II will involve the transformation of Phase I findings into positive organizational change by focusing on the design and destiny phases. Administrators will determine "what should be" and create "what will be" in regards to administrator development, mentoring, and networking. Again, the overarching goal of the ADEPT AI Project is to ensure the development, success, and retention of exceptional administrators.
Administrator Social Networking Analysis (planned for 05/09 - 08/09)
Social network analysis tools will help find, assess, and strategically support key patterns of administrator collaboration. Network analysis will help identify and overcome disconnects and clustering caused by functional or departmental boundaries, hierarchical levels, physical distance, or organizational lines. The goal of this research project is to improve collaboration and connectivity among administrators and between departments, the School of Medicine, the Health Services Foundation, and the Medical Center.
Administrator Survey (administered annually)
The purpose of the Administrator Survey is to evaluate the state of the School of Medicine; assess job satisfaction and morale; and identify organization and professional development opportunities. Findings will be used to shape the content and sequencing of development programs.