In summer quarter 2015, the Global Issues and Strategic Partnerships course was piloted under the direction of MSHE faculty member Joan Gillespie. The course was offered as “alternative schedule,” which entailed an intensive, in-person weekend of class and consecutive virtual class meetings.

Gillespie shared, “I wasn’t afraid to try this course format, as I engage in online meetings regularly as part of my work [with the Associated Colleges of the Midwest].” Gillespie also remarked on the diversity of assignments made possible through a virtual learning environment and the richness of dialogue among students and faculty.

Students also benefitted from this new course. MSHE student Todd Linton stated, “My classmates have a diverse array of academic and professional backgrounds, and each person brings a unique perspective to the course material.” One such perspective is from MSHE international student Lusha Zhang, who said the course "is a very innovative and beneficial learning experience.”

Global Issues and Strategic Partnerships also responds to Northwestern’s stake in cutting-edge global partnerships and MSHE’s efforts to be a leader in alternative modes of technologically driven course delivery, such as alternative schedule and blended learning formats. For more information, contact us at ms-highered@northwestern.edu.