Management and Leadership

I feel this component of effective project management is the most important. If I was unable to manage a project or lead teachers throughout the school year we would not be able to accomplish anything.

According to Hersey (2001) (Trends and Issues in Instructional Design, pp 114) leadership involves cognitive, behavioral, and process skills. Being able to assess situations, communicate goals, and match actions with needed skills while listening to suggestions and concerns are trademarks of an effective leader.

A different leadersip model is called Situational Leadership. It is based on three factors:

1) the amount of guidance and direction a leader gives
2) the amount of socio-emotional support a leader provides
3) the readiness level followers exhibit in performing a specific task, function, or objective.

This model moves through different phases as members of the project team move to different levels of completion. The phases move from a directive, detailed leader to more of a monitor by the end of the final phase.

In my current role, I feel my team members are currently in the second phase (gain confidence but still learning). I spend less time with more supervisory duties and am moving toward the role of a supporter of my collegial projects. I meet with teachers, explain processes within our curriculum, and answer their questions as they move through the learning curve of a new teacher.