Debriefing is a critical part of successfully implementing educational computer-based simulation games to maximize learning outcomes. Simulation game effectiveness, regarding exploring gaming characteristics and cognitive and affective impacts, has been thoroughly researched. However, debriefing is overlooked by some as time-consuming and…

This paper explores Illinois's shift from a general administrative license, called a "Type 75" license, to a "PK-12 Principal Endorsement." It includes both a history of the reform efforts and a look at how implementation has fared nearly a decade after the legislation was signed into law. It also offers lessons and…

The School Administration Manager (SAM) project, supported by The Wallace Foundation as part of its education initiative, focuses on changing the conditions in schools that prevent principals from devoting more time to instructional leadership. In schools participating in the National SAM Project, principals have made a commitment to increase the…

The concept of quality circles is discussed. The authors explore company compatibility with Japanese management philosophy, a compatibility test, planning for the change to quality circles, need for a flexible design, and setting worthwhile goals. (CT)

In November 1987, 1,200 Tennessee administrators out of 2,800 surveyed by mail offered their opinions about Administrator Career Ladder--a new program implemented in spring 1985 as part of the State's Comprehensive Education Reform Act. Results show that educators are split over the advisability of this undertaking. Survey responses varied…

Districts planning to implement principal mentoring programs can increase their programs' chances of success by considering various issues, such as mentor selection, mentor/protege matches, essential hands-on experiences, and the value of reciprocation and time commitment. Successful mentoring depends on establishing trust, conveying expectations,…

Mentoring, a powerful tool for developing and training school principals, must be managed wisely. Drawing on the experiences of a mentoring program operating in Singapore since 1984, this article discusses three major issues influencing success: mentor selection, program preparation and development, and program operation and organization.…

Discusses Theory Z, the Japanese philosophy of work and job training. Examines the 13-step matrix of this theory. These steps include: knowing the company's organization and management philosophy; implementing the philosophy; developing interpersonal skills; testing oneself and the system; involving the union; and stabilizing employment. (CT)

A positive codified working relationship between the principal and the school board is crucial to a school's good health. Many "overseas" schools have a long history of management difficulties resulting in the constant change of school heads and domination of short-term solutions when long-term planning is needed. Suggestions are made…

The move from teaching to administration is pivotal for creating innovative leaders. The National Policy Board on Educational Administration has called for principal recruitment and preparation reforms. This article discusses the socialization processes leading to the principal's role and describes implementation, benefits, and problems of New…

Investors in People, a British Department of Employment initiative administered through local Training and Enterprise Councils, aims to improve the nation's economy by enhancing staff involvement and development. The initiative offers a strategy for improving workforce quality, empowering staff, improving morale, and enhancing teamwork. A major…

This article reviews the basic principles of Total Quality Management (TQM) and how they can be applied to the administration of community colleges. TQM is a customer (student)-focused, continuous-improvement, quality-oriented way of thinking about all aspects of operating an organization that is shared and practiced by all employees (faculty and…

The task of improving educational administrator preparation is one of epic proportions. The magnitude of the task is expressed using allusions to the epic style and the myth of Jason and the Golden Fleece. The paper presents a quick "environmental scan" to determine how visionary and revolutionary are some current ideas for improvements…

This report reviews the implementation of Project Creating a New Approach to Learning (CANAL), part of a court-mandated desegregation plan in Chicago (Illinois), at the end of its first two years. CANAL's goal was to train the constituent representatives of the public schools to engage in shared decision-making and to develop organizational…

In 1993, the California Community Colleges' Commission on Innovation published recommendations for the colleges to accommodate more students, respond to growing student diversity, and provide students with more advanced education and skills for the future. Included in the report are estimates of cost and savings for implementation. Focusing on…