Students are introduced to the field of education through the study of selected theories of educational leadership, information collection for administrative problem analysis and decision making, empowerment, effective communication, and administrative uses of technology. Students examine instructional program design, effective teaching strategies, classroom management, supervision models, personnel and program evaluation, and teaching models. Students focus on the management of human resources with particular attention given to administrative, instructional, and support personnel in the school systems and other educational institutions. Specific attention is given to strategic personnel planning, state certification, personnel screening and selection, staffing, personnel appraisal and compensation, staff development, and selected areas of student personnel services. The focus of study is on school site management including policy issues, management strategies, and communication techniques.
Students participate in a field-based supervised practicum.
On-site supervision of an approved field experience and leadership project designed to improve administrative performance is provided. This course introduces students to a variety of concepts and perspectives related to curriculum planning, environment, and evaluation. Emphasis is placed on the educational leader's unique opportunities for fostering rich curriculum environments.