The MLW Model

MLW’s programs attract middle school and high school students from all parts of Maryland (and some from outside of Maryland as well) to discover and strengthen their individual and group leadership skills. The
diversity reflected in the composition of each program’s delegates and staff is an invaluable part of the experience for all.

At Maryland Leadership Workshops,Inc. programs,students learn by doing. Through team building,peer teaching,experience-based learning,and other creative techniques,MLW staff create an exciting,
supportive environment where students are encouraged to be themselves and develop their leadership potential. MLW participants learn about themselves and others,and become inspired and motivated to achieve,succeed,and exercise leadership.

The dynamic educational model developed and used by MLW involves three types main components:education,investigation,and implementation

Education

At these unique programs,each student begins by identifying his/her own leadership strengths and weaknesses
in a supportive and fun environment that fosters increased self-esteem and confidence. Then,through interactive,peer-taught workshops,students build on their newly-gained self-awareness,learning skills such as group dynamics,conflict resolution,project management,diversity awareness,ethical decision-making,communication and presentation skills,and many others.

Investigation

These skills are then applied to a multitude of individual and group situations,thereby increasing the students’
problem solving ability,appreciation of diversity,and knowledge of new techniques and methods of leadership.  Chief among these situations are theoretical practicums that challenge students to apply the skills and concepts they have learned in workshops in low-stress situations.

Implementation

Finally,program participants further refine their newly acquired leadership skills in a “hands on” committees   that give students an opportunity to plan an aspect of the MLW program (e.g. closing activities,newsletters) and develop action plans to implement in their home and school communities.