A Formative Evaluation of the Leadership Education and Development (LEAD) Program Curriculum

In 1996 the Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) in Monterey, CA designed a graduate education program for Navy and Marine Corps officers who are detailed to the U.S. Naval Academy (USNA). The students complete a Master of Science degree in Leadership and Human Resources Development, then assume duties as a Company Officer. This study is a formative evaluation of the Leadership Education and Development (LEAD) program. Its purpose is to determine the strengths and weaknesses of the program, whether the graduates perceive that their leadership skills changed as a result of the program, and provide recommendations for improvements to the program. A literature review includes a discussion of educational program evaluation and qualitative measurement procedures. Interviews were conducted with all members of the first graduating LEAD class. It was found that the graduates believe that the program was beneficial, had a positive effect on their leadership styles, and with some modification, will be a useful tool in educating Company Officers. It is recommended that coordination and communication between and among NPS and USNA staffs be increased to reduce redundancy within the curriculum, take full advantage of LEAD's proximity to USNA, and obtain a common understanding of LEAD program effectiveness criteria.Naval Postgraduate School Monterey CA is the author of 'A Formative Evaluation of the Leadership Education and Development (LEAD) Program Curriculum' with ISBN 9781423543275 and ISBN 1423543270.