LeaderNet
Since 2002, MSH virtual programs have strengthened the management and leadership of more than 5,000 health professionals in 77 countries across five continents in six languages. One of MSH’s most notable virtual programs is LeaderNet (leadernet.msh.org), a web-based global learning community of health professionals, managers, facilitators, and technical experts interested in improving health services and strengthening health systems.
LeaderNet is based on Lidernet (which was originally developed in Brazil to support more than 400 leaders who had completed a leadership development program). The LeaderNet website is available in English, French, Portuguese, and Spanish and can support moderated discussions in each of these languages. It includes an area for facilitators where they can download full Leadership Development Programs and tips on how to improve their facilitation skills, as well as a blog section for “LeaderNauts” to share their challenges and relevant work approaches with other members.
The proliferation of information and communication technology applications over the last decade provides a distinct opportunity to elevate LeaderNet to the next level of innovative knowledge exchange. The LMG Project recently carried out an instructional design audit of LeaderNet, and will be upgrading the platform with a more integrated blog area, relevant social media links, multiple resource sequencing, and network mapping.
Virtual Leadership Development Programs (VLDP)
The Leadership, Management, and Governance (LMG) Project launched its first Virtual Leadership Development Program (VLDP) for Pre-Service institutions on February 18, 2013. The VLDP consists of six learning modules facilitated by experienced LMG staff who provide continual support, feedback, and guidance to participating teams during the program. Facilitators for this VLDP includedBelkis Giorgis, Senior Technical Advisor for Gender and Capacity Building and Susan Post, Senior Technical Advisor for Leadership and Organization.
The program, which lasted 13 weeks, was designed for Schools of Medicine, Nursing, and Public Health, and other institutions of higher education in health care. VLDP program participants work in teams to identify key leadership challenges within their institutions and begin addressing these challenges in a systematic and participatory way. Participating teams received a supplementary participant workbook, in addition to full access of the VLDP website. Upon completion of the program, teams are awarded a “Certificate of Active Participation”.
More information can be found on MSH’s website.