The key factors that contribute to sound education management may be regarded as those that are impacted by the vision of the leadership that is directed towards the collective success of students, cultivating a sense of comradeship and belonging in all, creating a conducive learning environment, improving on instructional strategies and regular up-gradation of human and other resources.
Should therefore, education management knowledge be the domain only of heads of schools and vice principals? Certainly if this were to be, then realizing the vision would take too long and be a cumbersome process for the leadership and those in managerial positions. To give fruition to any project, any vision – an organization must align its staff to collective goal achievement. Teachers and school leaders alike thus must have a sound understanding and knowledge of education management.
Skills that teachers must develop to be in sync with 21stcentury education delivery
All teachers are leaders and it is not clichéd to say so! At the same time not all are school or education leaders. There is great need and potential to hone these skills though.
Collaboration and Teambuilding
Particularly in the 21st century, collaboration and teambuilding are two key factors in the successful achievement of goals for schools or any academic institution. Even though the ultimate responsibility of leading the team rests with the heads or vice principals, it is very important that the teaching staff be well acquainted with elements of teambuilding and teamwork to create the right environment for ‘winning’ in a given situation. When teachers take up the role to lead their students and direct them towards success, they are automatically creating future leaders by their own example. Therefore, it is critical that teachers are able to take on this role and lead n times of need, change or crisis. Proposing new ideas can bring together both the teaching and student fraternity – when students can rely on their teachers for guidance and mentorship, magical collaboration happens – schools thrive and flourish not only in tangible aspects but also through intangible values.
Coordination with Diverse Groups
The ability to interact and work meaningfully with diverse socio-cultural or socio-economic groups is certainly a significant feature in building a great team of teacher-leaders. It involves the attitude of responding effortlessly to all without bias e.g. community, cred, race, gender, disability and so on. It is an attitude and skill that needs to be consciously developed and fostered for wholesome and holistic development of all concerned in the education system. Being inclusive is the mantra for success in the 21st century. Knowing colleagues and students are key ingredients to achieve this.
Develop Verbal and Written Communication Skills
Thoughts expressed verbally or through writing are strong tools of effective communication, so critical in today’s world! Thoughts must be presented in a manner that they reach and evoke the kind of response that both communicators can connect with one another. Al efforts I collaboration and communication can fall apart if one is not equipped to succinctly express one’s thoughts whether addressing a school assembly or a large public rally. Written correspondence is another aspect which needs equal attention.
Professional Development
To keep staff motivated and in tune with the trends in the field of education and management, it is vital to include professional developmental programs for them. This makes the members feel confident and valued which in turn reflects in how they give back to the organization. Training workshops, up-gradation programs, seminars and the like are practical ways of achieving this aim.
Remain Upbeat on Current Educational Administration Trends
Change being the only constant, new thoughts and techniques and tools are constantly evolving in this field. To remain ahead of the league it is critical to be aware and skilled in implementing these changes and tools so that schools achieve their vision. This is possible only when teachers along with principals and vice principals participate equally in knowledge building and sharing in so far as education management is concerned.
