Innovative Approaches in Higher Education

The following identifies several key concepts of change theory that are crucial to implementation of a new and innovative approach. A description of the concept with reasons why they are crucial is provided. For example, change theories include provisions to deal with inevitable resistance to change. Ways to address this and other factors related to change are presented with an illustration of why the key concepts are crucial.

Curry (1992) stated that there are three stages of institutional change and these include mobilization implementation, and institutionalization. If an innovation is not institutionalized it will probable be terminated. Change must become a permanent part of the organization and this requires the institutionalization of the change. The organization's social nature and beliefs system and leadership influence on these beliefs are influences in this process.

Schein (2005) presented Lewin's theory of change, which includes three steps in the change process: unfreezing, changing, and refreezing. Thus, unfreezing is a key and important concept; a company must be awakened to the new reality and disengage from the past, understanding that the old way of doing things is no longer acceptable. Disengagement is another critical concept that is accomplished through an understanding of the need for change as well as driving and resisting forces. During this process, resistance to change