Module 5: Building Relationships and Navigating Hierarchies
Module Author: Gillian Lord, University of Florida
Overview: Why do Relationships and Hierarchies Matter for Language Program Direction?
Language program directors (LPDs) occupy an important and interesting place in their units and in their institutions, fulfilling numerous roles and responsibilities (see Module 1). Successful LPDs will understand the structures and hierarchies in their own units, as well as in their institutions, and will develop the skills needed to navigate relationships both with those to whom they report and those who report to them. Furthermore, given the potential for language study to relate to virtually all disciplines, the LPD is well positioned to be a strategic collaborator with units across campus. As such, their knowledge of the campus infrastructure will serve them well in identifying possible partnerships. The informed LPD can also identify areas on campus with potentially competing priorities and can work proactively to ameliorate these.
The topics covered in this module will equip the LPD with an overview of the intricacies and dynamics of navigating the ecosystem in which language programs reside by exploring academic structures, identifying strategies for working within and beyond the language unit, and managing both opportunity and difficulty.
After completing this module, you will be able to:
- Explain the academic structure in which your language program exists
- Assess potential areas of opportunity and difficulty within your academic structure
- Use appropriate communication strategies to minimize potential conflicts and strengthen potential alliances
- Establish connection-building priorities for your program
At the end of the module, you will find resources to help you continue to hone your skills in these areas.