Findings of a study that examined the collaborative problem-solving processes used by superintendents are presented in this paper. Based on information processing theory, the study utilizes a model composed of the following components: interpretation; goals; principles and values; constraints; solution processes; and mood. Data were derived from…

Literature that examines reasons for the underrepresentation of women in educational administration is reviewed in this paper. Some explanations include the circular phenomenon, in which the lack of female role models contributes to fewer women applicants, discrimination, an increase in the number of males entering the teaching field, and social…

A preliminary study tested the reliability and validity of an instrument that was constructed to identify and measure the various dimensions, tasks, and worker characteristics associated with performing the functions of a director of forensics. Three-part questionnaires were mailed to 210 forensics programs, representing both public and private…

The first year as an assistant principal can be even more trying than a teacher's first year. Becoming an administrator is a personal and professional transition that requires a new perspective on schools and a new definition of one's role as an educator. The first year as an assistant principal also is important in setting attitudes and standards…

This book illustrates how principals can simultaneously act as efficient managers and effective leaders. Through a mixture of "knowing about" and "knowing how," the book offers new strategies to help principals integrate the technical management role with the symbolic leadership role. Chapter 1 illustrates the tension between the two approaches in…

This booklet provides advice on how schools can forge useful working relationships with the news media. Nineteen ground rules for working with print or broadcast media are outlined. The most important rule for all occasions is to make sure that your information is true. Strategies are described for using various tools of the trade, such as the…

Findings of a study that examined the relationship of administrative role conflict and ambiguity with stress and burnout are presented in this paper. A survey sent to 1,000 Washington State administrators (250 each from the following groups--elementary, junior, and senior high school principals; and superintendents) elicited 741 returns, a 74…

It is widely acknowledged that programs to prepare administrators for their roles are inadequate and are not designed with coming changes in education in mind. States must take responsibility for changing preparation programs to meet these challenges. Much of the discussion about preparation programs centers on the knowledge base administrators…

A case study illustrates the concept of the neurotic organization by describing the development of "Central Control College" over a period of 11 years. In this period of time, the college moved from a small, informal organization to a highly developed compulsive institution. The image of neurosis has been applied in the organizational…

A study explored the differences between educational administrators with or without a doctorate degree. Members of a seminar for beginning practicing administrators interviewed 19 pairs of educational administrators in equivalent positions--one with a doctorate and one without. Utilizing Leithwood's "principal effectiveness" taxonomy, significant…

Employing multiple case study analysis methods, the attitudes and actions of superintendents in three school districts with improving basic skills test performance were compared with those of superintendents of three nonimproving districts to determine if patterns of difference existed. Contextual variations and superintendents' priorities were…

Management and leadership as a consequence of organizational tasks and structure are discussed in this paper, with a focus on the application of leadership theories from market-oriented organizations to more regulated organizations such as the Swedish school system. The Swedish educational system, according to Berg's (1988) "cross…

Feedback data provide an avenue to improved perceptions; in the educational setting, improved perceptions translate into personal growth and more positive organizational culture. To provide a valid, reliable, and practical instrument for faculty feedback regarding administrative skill, the Audit of Principal Effectiveness was developed in 1982.…

The Principals Center at Georgia State University is in its fifth year of providing personal growth and development programs for the 520 elementary, middle, and high school principals in the metropolitan Atlanta area. An important component of those programs has been the study of the humanities. The background, goals, and evaluation plan for the…

The nature of the relationship between the disciplinarian (leader) and the disciplined is examined within the context of the role of student staff in college and university residence halls. The manner in which a resident assistant tells and sells, and participates and delegates will have a significant impact on their ability to lead. The proper…