Students in the educational leadership program are strongly encouraged to take this course first in the educational leadership course sequence. Roles and functions of administrators in elementary and secondary schools will be addressed. A variety of theories will be analyzed and applied in the context of the dynamic milieu, personal and group biases, and the multivariate issues facing organizational life in schools.
Major functions concerning the supervision of staff in a school setting including the selection, orientation, and development of staff members will be covered. Theories and techniques for promoting a positive school climate will be explored and applied. Alternative approaches to assessing and enhancing a staff's instructional competence will be examined. Prerequisite: AD 5010.
A practical encounter with the administrative practices, strategies and policies presently used in the public schools. Practicum visitations are required as part of the course and will be especially designed to match the experience, occupational aspirations and interests of the student. Conference with the instructor and meetings with fellow students will provide for exchange of ideas and reports of observations. AD 5010 and AD 5020 recommended but not required. It is recommended that this course be taken near the end of the candidate's program.
It is the responsibility of all educators to participate in ongoing professional development. It is through this high level of professional engagement that educators gain the knowledge they need to be successful in the classroom. This course examines alternative ways of providing individualized, sustained professional development opportunities within their work environment. Participants will review levels of advocacy and how they might become educational advocates within their organizations.