An introduction to the policy adoption process at the local school system level. Social, economic, and political factors are studied as they influence the decisions reflected in board of education policies. Participants gain practical skills in several different approaches to supervisory practice. Establishing appropriate supervisor-supervisee relationships, systematic observation of behavior, design of appropriate interventions, and case practice are included. Students explore basic assumptions of educational finance and theories of financing the public schools at the state and local levels.
Specific emphasis is given to several models of financing education.
The state financial plan of Georgia is included as one of these models. Students learn through a participatory small-group experience. Major topics covered are leadership style, conflict resolution, use of power, planned change, and decision making. Sociological variables that influence decisions determining the design, functioning, and management of education institutions are introduced. Special emphasis is given to processes of planned organizational change and interorganizational communication.