Defence Leadership Theory eLearning Courseware

Introducing leadership theory and its evolution through structured academic study.

Online modules were developed and delivered for the Defence Leadership MSc, transitioning long-form lectures into a structured, reusable digital learning format suitable for both MSc delivery and short courses.

The project includes two complementary modules: a core leadership theory course and an interactive timeline that explores the historical evolution of leadership thinking, from classical philosophy to contemporary models.

The timeline employs a flowing river metaphor to represent leadership theory as an evolving, cumulative system shaped by context rather than a single linear model. The interface anchors each theory to a fixed point on the river and progressively introduces explanatory content, supporting continuity, comparison, and conceptual flow.

The supporting theory module integrates custom graphics, interactive elements, and short activities to explore definitions of leadership, distinctions between leadership, command, and management, and the conditions under which leadership is necessary. The courses have been well received by academic staff and students and are now used across both military and civilian cohorts.