Education Commons^™

A Reflective Essay About Philosophy Of Education, James Dostal

Graduate Research Papers

People are the essence of education. In the education and athletic professions people were and are the source of my ideas about leadership qualities. Educational leadership is significant to the organization of schools as well as school districts. This writing will reflect on qualities of leaders and my philosophy of leadership.

Models Of Integrated Student Services, Roland A. Carrillo

Graduate Research Papers

In the past ten years, some colleges and universities have rethought the types of services they offer to their students and the manner in which the services are delivered. This innovation in student services involves rethinking and organizing common processes, matching personnel and technology to accomplish these processes, and modifications in physical facilities to better accommodate the new system. Together, these innovations often create a "one-stop shop" that delivers a multitude of common student services in a quick and efficient manner. This reorganization is known as integrated student services (Beede & Burnett, 1999).

A Preferred Vision For Administering Secondary Schools : A Reflective Essay, Greg Fisher

Graduate Research Papers

An effective administrator has a passion for assisting children in their educational growth. Administrators strive for a quality, equitable and applicable education for all children. Leadership is developed from the core values held by the individual. Values that are essential for a distinguished leader are integrity and honesty. Respected administrators have established positive working relationships with all members of the learning community, and they challenge each individual to achieve their fullest potential.

A Preferred Vision For Administering Secondary Schools : A Reflective Essay, Scott B. Bailey

Graduate Research Papers

The educational process has been an important part of this country since our founding fathers first stepped off the ships and started a new life. The
pioneers continued to move westward and educate their youth. Reform-minded individuals set out to improve our educational process. These educated individuals soon developed wondrous items of technology. Individuals educated by dedicated leaders in the field of education made those technological advancements possible. These leaders developed qualities, which were continually improved into the leadership ideas presented in this reflective paper. We need to expect the best of our students as they attend our institutions. An …

A Preferred Vision For Administering Secondary Schools : A Reflective Essay, Kimberly K. Blakesley

Graduate Research Papers

The most vital role an administrator can play is that of aiding teachers to enable students to learn. This will be done through giving and coaching unselfishly. The need of an educator in any position is to pass on the key that will enable students to renew their faith and confidence in their own abilities. Once the student finds or accepts this key and uses it, they will unlock the golden door to learning--then the rest is up to them. The constant repetition of learning will be absorbed by that other mind of theirs, the subconscious, and eventually will be …

The Album-Like Vision For Administering Elementary Schools : A Reflective Essay, Kimberly R. Miers

Graduate Research Papers

Have you ever put together a photo album? One photograph tells a piece of the story, the photo album tells the whole story. The principal's role is much like that of a photo album creator. Principals need to focus on all aspects of the school. In effect they take snapshots of the school, collect them, and analyze them to ensure the realization of their school's vision.

A Preferred Vision For Administering Elementary Schools : A Reflective Essay, Steven E. Mielenhausen

Graduate Research Papers

The world has become a very complex and dynamic place. Students today.are required to make sense of a world that increases its base knowledge at an alarming rate. These students have a general idea of what lies ahead of them when they become adults, but cannot nail down what future employment might look like. Fortunately there are dedicated professionals who understand the importance of an educated, informed and resourceful public. Educational leaders must gather these dedicated professionals with a common vision.

School Age Bullying : The Victim's Point Of View, Jacquelyn L. Miller

Graduate Research Papers

Bullying is a common problem in schools across the world including in the United States. This paper focuses on the problem of bullying from the victim's point of view. Bullying can be defined in a variety of different ways and occurs in a variety of different situations. Victims of bullies suffer from a wide variety of academic, social, behavioral, and emotional problems. A comprehensive approach that includes school counselors, teachers, administrators, and parents is needed to combat bullying within the school. Bully prevention and intervention programs can help victims more effectively if they change their orientation from focusing on the …

A Preferred Vision For Administering Elementary Schools : A Reflective Essay, Shelly A. Petersen

Graduate Research Papers

The principal of the 21st century must be able to balance many activities to meet the needs of all constituents. In creating an environment that meets the needs of all, the principal must focus in on six essential concepts: 1) creating a team approach, 2) building a shared vision through communication, 3) facilitating change, 4) managing time, 5) creating climate, and 6) improving instruction. I am convinced that if a principal focuses attention on these six concepts he/she can create a vision within the school that centers its attention on student achievement. When an administrator does so a vision to …

Visions And Beliefs For Leading Elementary Schools : A Reflective Essay, Janet M. Rohmiller

Graduate Research Papers

As I strive to become a strong elementary school leader, my emerging philosophy of leadership reinforces my firm belief that all children can learn. It is based on five key responsibilities: Effective leaders possess a strong knowledge base; model ethical and moral behavior; work collaboratively with all stakeholders; provide a safe environment conducive to learning; and ensure a sound education for all children. Rooted in research, study, personal experience, and reflection, these beliefs establish the foundation for my vision of leading others toward education for all.

Asian International Students' And Asian Americans' Counseling Characteristic Preferences And Impact Of Counselor Ethnicity, Robin L. Sandberg

Graduate Research Papers

The number of international students pursuing higher education in the United States continues to grow each year. While over 190 countries are represented, over half of the students are coming from Asian countries. According to a 2001 survey of international students studying in the United States, 55% of students come from Asian countries, with China, India, and Japan listed as the top three countries of origin. This paper will focus primarily on (1) the exploration of Asian international students' openness to United States counseling services offered on college campuses, (2) the counselor characteristic preferences of Asian international students, and ultimately …

Male Childhood Sexual Abuse : Do Not Overlook It, Elizabeth Soenen

Graduate Research Papers

Male childhood sexual abuse (CSA) is often unrecognized and under-reported; therefore, its symptoms are often left untreated. The research reveals it is more prevalent than previously thought and is accompanied by a variety of maladaptive symptoms. Clinicians' awareness of these findings, along with self-awareness of their own beliefs about male CSA, is likely to lead to identification of its presence and the opportunity to choose appropriate interventions.

Academic Advising Strategies For The At-Risk Student, Angie K. Tudor

Graduate Research Papers

"They often come to class without a pen or paper, put off buying a textbook, do not complete initial assignments, become erratic in attendance, and one day, they simply disappear" (Rouche, 1993, p.37). This description of an at-risk student was provided by a faculty member expressing concern over the plight of this unique category of students in higher education. At-risk students are students who, through no fault of their own, have been denied some of the advantages granted to the majority of college students. "These advantages include growing up in a loving, supportive family, having adequate financial resources, or having …

The Use Of Metaphor In Counseling, Helen Driscoll Kemp

Graduate Research Papers

Language is a powerful tool of which metaphorical language is one compelling feature that the therapist has at his or her disposal. Through the use of metaphor, therapeutic communication is enhanced and abstract ideas become more tangible. This paper begins with a dictionary definition of metaphor and how some of the experts in the field have defined it. Several types of metaphor will be described along with some practical examples for each type. Metaphor can be used in various counseling modalities. Four modalities will be described along with why metaphors are useful. Finally the paper will conclude with the process …

A Vision For Administering Schools : A Reflective Essay, Kevin Litterer

Graduate Research Papers

I have experienced many things in two years as a high school principal. I have been yelled at by parents and praised by others. I have mourned the death of a board president, a teacher, and a little girl in the seventh grade. I have hired teachers who are making a difference in the lives of children every time they walk into the classroom, and I have dealt with the stress that comes with terminating a teacher. I have had the opportunity to address the community in an effort to persuade them to vote "yes" on a bond issue and …

Designing A Web Page To Facilitate Communication, Lori B. Lee

Graduate Research Papers

The purpose of this action research project was to build a teacher-controlled web page that would facilitate communication between home, community, and school. The web site contained information about administration, athletics (including schedules), honor roll and awards, faculty and staff information, advisor/advisee programs, academic information with assignments, special events, and students of the week.

Twenty-three seventh grade parents volunteered to respond to surveys about their communication with the staff at the Nashua-Plainfield Middle School and the implementation of the middle school web site.

The response by the parents indicated that they liked the monthly news, information on assignments, and athletic …

Linking The Literacy Curriculum With Technology, Scot J. Surprenant

Graduate Research Papers

Evaluating the process and needs of linking literacy and technology in the educational setting. The technology is presented as the driving force of change in the literacy. Teachers, administrators, and parents need to formulate a plan for training sessions along with organizing supportive people around them to integrate technology into the curriculum. They need to design professional development to empower teachers to use technology, in the curriculum. Understanding that students are exposed to multimedia literacy, technology will be a medium to motivate and synthesize learning. Teachers facilitate students to be responsible and empowered learners for their own learning. There is …

A Preferred Vision For Administering Elementary Schools : A Reflective Essay, Brian L. Ortman

Graduate Research Papers

The purpose of education is to prepare students for a life filled with decisions. Therefore, it is the duty of schools to provide students with opportunities to develop the skills needed to make these decisions. Obviously, students attend school to receive an education, but educators cannot stop there, they must also help students to grow socially.

Underachievement And Movitation : Why Children Underachieve And The School Counselor's Role In Helping Students, Sarah M. Kakacek

Graduate Research Papers

Underachievement and lack of motivation are two matters of concern that are significantly affecting elementary children in North American classrooms (Wigfield & Eccles, 2002). School counselors have responsibilities to encourage and foster growth in children's learning through the use of combined techniques such as self-monitoring and self-evaluation. In addition, counselors are attempting to understand and further explore channels that may stifle a child's progress including, but not limited to: the classroom environment, the child's belief system, internal needs and cognitions, the child's sense of autonomy as well as competency, and basic needs of belonging and fun.

In aiding the underachieved …

A Preferred Vision For Administering Secondary Schools : A Reflective Essay, Maria Trese Cashman

Graduate Research Papers

Monroe (1997) said, "School should not reflect what society is, but rather school should model what society should be" (p. 193). This statement summarizes my reasons for becoming an administrator. Iowa's public schools are some of the finest learning institutions in the nation. These same schools, however, frequently reflect the negative characteristics of society. Lack of respect, segregation of students, and elitist attitudes are prevalent characteristics of today's society and today's schools. I want to be a leader who will make the necessary changes to maintain our high academic standards for all students and make our schools a welcoming place …

A Preferred Vision For Administering Secondary Schools : A Reflective Essay, Dan J. Conner

Graduate Research Papers

In Supervision and Evaluation of Instruction, we constructed a top ten list of desirable leadership behaviors: 1. Open door policy 2. Empathetic 3. Confident 4. Reassuring 5. Knowledgeable 6. Energetic 7. Consistent 8. Patient 9. Humorous 10. Optimistic. I believe that all of these are vital links to aspire toward, however, knowledge is the one attribute I needed to focus on.

Our society is ever shifting and we will always be in the catch-up mode. Schools have long been a pillar of strength in communities. School is where you grow up, mature, and develop an identity. This is not going …

Philosophical Perspective On Educational Leadership : A Reflective Essay, Parrish Copeland

Graduate Research Papers

Leadership calls for creating a compelling vision of the future and developing farsighted strategies for producing the changes needed to achieve that vision. To be compelling for followers, the vision needs to be one they can relate to, understand, and share. Leadership focuses on getting everyone lined up in the same direction. Visionary leaders concern themselves with communicating their vision and developing a shared culture and set of core values. This can lead to an ambitious, desired future for the organization or team. A school administrator is an educational leader who promotes the success of all students by facilitating the …

A Preferred Vision For Administering Elementary Schools : A Reflective Essay, Tonya Englund-Wilkins

Graduate Research Papers

As a principal; the ship should sail toward the direction of becoming a learning community. The community needs to sense the impact schools play on their lives and their future. They also need to find their role when helping to man the ship. After all, the only path to greater academic achievement is the one open to all in which students and teachers travel daily together. If the map is clearly defined and the course is set, collaborative schools can weather any storm.

A Preferred Vision For Administering High Schools : A Reflective Essay, Gregg Eschweiler

Graduate Research Papers

Without an educated population, this nation would not be as strong as it is, nor will it be as strong as it could be. We still have a strong educational focus in the state of Iowa which lends us to believe that we can stand alone. That might not be the case in the future. Our state, communities, school districts, parents, teachers and students must keep striving to be the best and not rest on its laurels. We can not afford to let a generation of our youth slip, while we entertain a policy of isolation. I believe that the …

A Preferred Vision For Administering Elementary Schools : A Reflective Essay, Andrew B. Ferguson

Graduate Research Papers

The task of an effective administrative leader is to be a visionary who will organize the school environment in order to maximize learning and success for all students. It is not an easy task to undertake, but success can be achieved when the school leader involves stakeholders in the decision making process and treats others fairly and with respect.

Above all, an effective school administrator recognizes that he or she is a role model and that everyone from students, staff, parents, and community members take the cue from the principal. It is a position that can be very influential and …

A Preferred Vision For Administering Elementary Schools : A Reflective Essay, Kathleen J. Gavin

Graduate Research Papers

Administration is a word cluttered with connotative and denotative thoughts for each individual. When attached to the word education, it brings on another layer of detail and philosophical purpose. Obviously those of us involved in education have laid down the first belief that is essential to our jobs. That being the desire and the motivation to mold and educate our nation's youth. We believe we will make a difference in children's lives. An important and positive impact toward the education of our youth should and will remain the focus for administrators, for without children, we would have no purpose. However, …

A Perspective Of Educational Leadership In Secondary Schools, Dirk A. Halupnik

Graduate Research Papers

Throughout my experiences in the Master of Arts in Education program, I have had the opportunity to reflect on the values, beliefs, and knowledge that shape my vision on education and leadership. Through this reflection, I have come to a more complete understanding of what I value and how this effects my actions. In this reflective essay, I will discuss three areas: my values, beliefs, and philosophy, my thoughts on the purpose of school, and my personal vision of educational leadership.

The Impact Of Divorce And Healthy Adjustment Of Children, Stephanie A. Harken

Graduate Research Papers

The purpose of this paper was to examine the impact divorce has on children as: well as how parents can help their children adjust to divorce. The negative impacts that .divorce may have on children include emotional and behavioral problems. However, positive effects such as allowing the child to escape a hostile environment were also found. A review of the literature indicated that children's response to divorce differed according to type, stage, and age of the child at the time of divorce. The types of strategies that are being used to aid parents in helping their children cope include mediation, …

A Preferred Vision For Administering Elementary Schools : A Reflective Essay, Barry Jones

Graduate Research Papers

A principal must be an effective communicator and a motivator of students and faculty. A school principal must be a creative and innovative thinker that embraces the challenges of complex school decisions. The principal serves multiple roles as an educator, manager, and leader of the learning community who builds a vision that all stakeholders work together in making possible.

Perhaps the most important characteristic of a principal is being flexible. An effective principal is never completely satisfied and always strives for making things better. Continually monitoring and assessing best instructional practices, school testing data, and educational research, helps a principal …

Defining A Leader : Administration At The Secondary Level : A Reflective Essay, Amy Ann Hamilton Kangas

Graduate Research Papers

To teach students and know that you are affecting their future and possibly the future of the world is a daunting fact. To choose to be an administrator further commits oneself to the lifelong challenge of learning, teaching and facilitating an educational opportunity that will benefit students. To be a school administrator is to make a courageous decision. To be effective as a school administrator requires a strong leader who is able to build consensus among teachers; seek input from the community; and promote the trends that may reach students who are in danger of slipping through the cracks.