Back to Postmodern
Pedagogical Dimensions
Educational Leadership
Definition
Educational leadership is leadership in formal educational settings. It draws upon interdisciplinary literature, generally, but ideally distinguishes itself through its focus on pedagogy, epistemology and human development. In contemporary practice it borrows from political science and business. Debate within the field relates to this tension.
The accountability movement in education has increased interest in leadership models as they pertain to classrooms, schools, and school districts (Leithwood & Riehl, 2003; Mulford & Silins, 2004). If we improve the leadership abilities of our teachers and administrators, will it result in better educated students? Can we train individuals as leaders, and will it affect desired outcomes, or are leaders "born, not made?" Can a leader be effective leading any school, or is it first necessary to match the leader with the school? If so, what are the characteristics of each that are important in arriving at a satisfactory match?
Recent decades have seen the expansion of graduate programs in Educational Leadership, and more school districts are recognizing the value of advanced degrees in educational leadership for principals and administrators (Fife & Goodchile, 1991; Hoppe & Spech, 2003). These programs include courses in management, labor relations, and organizational theory, as well as leadership theory.
Educational leadership may be improved, not only by increasing the knowledge within the field, but—according to advocates of rational-accountability movements in education—perhaps also through collaboration with leaders in other types of organizations; for example, business. (Wikipedia, 2006)
Notable Theorists & Theories Involving Educational Leadership
Educational Leadership Societies & Networks
Online Journals
See Also: