Frequently Asked Questions

How is CALM structured and what will I learn?

CALM includes nine full-day sessions scheduled approximately every three weeks.  The program features a variety of guest speakers and consultants with expertise in areas of strategic planning, team building, coaching, creativity and leadership.  University presenters engage participants in discussion around critical management issues including human resources practices, business and financial systems within McMaster and other critical University initiatives and/or priorities. 

A key element of the program is the team project.  Participants work in small groups, with a member of the senior management team (SMT), subject matter expert and/or faculty leader, throughout the duration of the program. University leaders identify high priority projects that focus on issues that may enable the University to enhance service, reduce costs, or provide some other measurable improvement.

Projects results are shared with the entire group, University leaders, stakeholders and participant supervisors at an additional session that takes place two months following the final classroom session.

Who is eligible for CALM and how may I participate?

Participants are selected via an application process. Eligible participants must be non-academic managers (TMG or MUFA) with direct-reports from a bargaining unit and/or TMG. Faculty Directors, Chairs or Associate Deans are also eligible.  Interested managers and leaders may obtain an application package from the CALM website or by contacting CCE, ext. 24321. 

Is there a schedule available?

The preliminary schedule is released when applications open (typically February preceding the cohort start date). The program begins in October 2012 and the final classroom session is in April 2013.  Participants will reconvene for the final project results session in June 2013. 

What is the attendance expectation?

Attendance and participation is a vital requirement.  Participants have a responsibility to their project team members, the greater cohort and themselves to be personally invested in the classroom sessions, preparatory activities, and the project team initiatives.  Human Resources Services provides funding for the program.  There are no registration fees.

It is expected that participants, with the support of their supervisor, will attend all classroom sessions.  In the event of extenuating circumstances, participants may miss a maximum of two sessions.  Participants who miss more than two sessions may be ineligible to continue, and their department may be assessed up to a $1,000 cancellation fee. A “session” is defined as any full-day classroom session or portions thereof equaling two days of classroom time.

Is there any work expected outside of the classroom sessions?

CALM is an advanced learning program and requires that participants engage in a variety of activities outside of the structured classroom sessions.  Pre-work and post-work is assigned for most sessions and may consist of the following:

 
•    readings and assignments
•    maintenance of a learning journal
•    inventories or tools
•    team activities associated with the in-class sessions
•    team project meetings and activities associated with the project work

Sessions are held approximately every three weeks. For every classroom session, participants will need to allocate approximately 8 hours of time for the above items.  In addition, participants in the pilot offering will be requested to provide occasional feedback, beyond standard session evaluations.  This may include web-based surveys, written questionnaires or facilitated feedback sessions.

Do I earn any academic credit for this program?

Academic credit is not available for CALM; however participants do receive an official Certificate of Completion.

What are the benefits of CALM for me?

•    Build meaningful networks across the University
•    Contribute to University improvements and innovations
•    Develop your management and leadership capacity within McMaster
•    Participate in a fun and unique learning experience
•    Enhance your skills, knowledge and creativity to apply back in your department
•    Access senior leadership from the University in a small-group setting

Why is the program named CALM?

This program encompasses two different but desirable skill sets – effective management and innovative leadership.  It was important to reflect both words in the title of the program.  Also, the acronym of CALM suggests a level-headed, proactive, even-tempered demeanor.  Managers and leaders who calmly handle the daily pressures of work demands, organizational complexities and challenging interpersonal dynamics will likely be more successful.  Lastly, the word “advanced” was a key element to include as the program learning expectations and the project team element combine for a unique opportunity that is more rigorous than any existing McMaster training program.