We recognize that the executives attending Smith Executive Education programs are highly accomplished and knowledgeable learners. Therefore, our faculty engages senior participants in active discussions and uses the executives' knowledge and expertise as building blocks in the learning process. In other words, executives are not viewed as "older MBA students," but rather as adult learners, as experts in their own right.

This instructional philosophy also governs how we design programs for mid-level managers. These professionals also come to Smith programs with a good deal of knowledge and expertise. However,we also recognize that they need more learning in specific skill areas.

In all of our programs, we include what we call lateral threads. These are of two kinds. First, there are the capabilities that are best learned through experience, such as courage. Opportunities to practice these capabilities must be created throughout the program.

Second, there are the overarching themes of the senior management team and the business strategy. Key concepts for our client, those aspects of the vision or strategy that leaders especially wants to stress, should be woven into the fabric of the program.