Little research exists on the assessment of administrators' performance in higher education. The authors offer an evaluation model for assessing and monitoring the effectiveness of academic deans and directors, using generalizability theory as a basis for developing more accurate assessment procedures. (JM)

Based upon themes generated in this qualitative study, "high quality supervision" was defined by student affairs professionals as an educational endeavor demonstrated through principled practices with a dual focus on institutional and individual needs. Findings reveal that high quality supervisors engaged in common sense and ordinary supervisory…

This study investigated strategies used by college and university presidents in balancing their professional and personal lives. The conceptual framework for this study comes from the work of Schein (1985, 1992). Lessons learned and words of wisdom from these presidents can enhance leadership effectiveness at all levels in higher education.

The performance management scheme that has been operating in English schools since 2000 gives considerable responsibilities to the school's governing body. These include responsibility for appraisal of the headteacher's overall performance as a school leader and manager. Governing bodies are assisted in this task by government appointed external…

Results of a research study to determine the extent to which presidents of 4-year institutions with Senior Student Affairs Officer (SSAO) experience share the leadership characteristics of effective presidents as defined by earlier research are reported. Based on analysis of the data using t test and ANOVA statistical procedures, it is concluded…

While many organisations have embraced a succession of management fads, general training and knowledge management initiatives, there is evidence these have failed to equip key work groups with specific knowledge, pragmatic skills and practical tools they need to become more effective. In particular, changes are not making it easier for people…

By answering one fundamental question--"What will success look like?"--an educational institution has begun a process of defining its vision. It is undeniable that an institution will ever be greater than its dream; therefore, what is needed first and foremost is an articulated vision to propel an educational institution into a preferred future.…

This article profiles Randy Jensen, the 2005 MetLife/NASSP National Middle Level Principal of the Year. As the principal of William Thomas Middle School in American Falls, Idaho, Jensen is a committed advocate for his students as they grapple with the challenges that come with being an adolescent and has adopted an open-door policy with his school…

This paper compared the incidence and management of conflicts in secular and non-secular tertiary institutions in Nigeria. The sample of this study was made of sixty staff, and two hundred and forty students randomly selected each from two secular and two non-secular tertiary institutions in south western Nigeria. A validated questionnaire was…

Principals' technology leadership is strongly correlated with teachers' integration of educational technology, and technology leadership is necessary for effective utilization of technology in schooling. The article describes a study that empirically investigated teachers' perceptions of elementary schools principals' technology leadership…

Effective meeting leaders--people who know how to manage meetings, not just hold them--understand the two main arenas of any meeting: content issues and process activities. These two arenas are interdependent upon each other. This book is designed to help educators lead more effective meetings through increased process awareness. Chapter 1 offers…

Problem solving is one of the most important skills that new and developing professionals must learn. The process is complex, involving information scanning, problem identification, and feedback processes requiring synthesis, interim assessments, problem error recognition and rectification, and timely and appropriate conclusions. This study used…

The term "derailment" refers to situations in which individuals fall short of their career goals or groups fail to meet their organizational objectives. This book sets forth strategies to prevent derailment, both at the individual and organizational level. Following the prologue in the form of a cautionary tale, chapter 1 provides self-assessment…

A decade ago, principals were asked to become instructional leaders who exercised firm control by setting goals, maintaining discipline, and evaluating results. Today they are encouraged to act as facilitative leaders by building teams, creating networks, and "governing from the center." Rapid shifts in administrative philosophy can be…

The National Center for Education Statistics 1990-91 Schools and Staffing Survey examined the prior work experience of elementary and secondary public school principals. The survey found that 98.7 percent of principals had taught an average of 10.6 years before taking their administrative positions. The number of years of teaching increased with…