As Program Director of the CACP’s unique executive development program, the Institute for Strategic International Studies, I am pleased to welcome all past participants of the International Best Practices Project 2003, ISIS 2006 and ISIS 2008 to this dedicated Community-of-Practice site. We would also like to welcome our visiting guests who may be interested in the ISIS program, its executive PBL learning model, and the body of policing and public safety research produced to date by our alumni.
On behalf of the ISIS Program Delivery Team, and our Executive Advisors, I would like to invite you to begin this ongoing interaction by posting a comment. What has the ISIS program meant to you and your career? What were the most significant personal outcomes from the experience? What advice might you offer to others considering the ISIS experience as part of their professional development as current and future leaders in policing, public safety and criminal justice?
ISIS 2008 was an excellent opportunity for me to work and interact with twenty of the finest, outstanding police professionals in Canada. To collectively and objectively research, analyse and respond to a topic which is challenging most police services throughout the democratic world was truly rewarding. The ISIS 2008 experience opened my mind on several fronts: problem-based learning; research methodolgies; local police service challenges are international police servcie challenges; the power of the Internet and the importance of the “TEAM.” It has made me a better police leader!
My most significant personal outcome was working with an outstanding team of police leaders and realizing we are in good hands for the future.
Advice to new ISIS particiants – keep an open mind, value the input and participation of others, and make every effort to free your personal and professional schedules to meet the program obligations. Most of you will participate whiule continuing your substantive responsibilities – your unfettered participation and attention will significantly increase your professional and personal development. All the best, good luck and enjoy the ride!
ISIS 2008 was one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences a police leader could have. It will quickly become apparent that Teamwork is the key to success in this endeavor. Collectively the minds of twenty others push the agenda to degrees you would not have thought possible. The traditional thought process you have developed over the many years of policing and life experience will expand. The potential influence on Canadian Policing that you will have as a result of your full immersion into the process will be great. It will be hard to measure in the short term, but long term Policing will adapt and change as a result of some of the recommendations you collectively will have made.
Around the world you will quickly note that a police person in any country you visit will have the same concerns as yours, albeit to varying degrees. The lasting friendships you make with those overseas and in Canada are also a highlight of the ISIS journey.
Advice to ISIS 2009 participants would include such things as getting yourself acquainted with INTERNET research, communication mediums and proper retention and cataloging of the work you and your team collects as a result of the research. Your voice will be heard and all input is valuable to the task at hand. Ensure you clear your calendar as best you can both personally and professionally for the duration. You will definitely never forget the experience. Best Regards