Leadership is both objective and subjective. Some of our critics have suggested that we overemphasize the objective aspect of leadership: facts, data, and test scores. Others state we spend too much time addressing leadership at the expense of the actual management of schools. At the same time leadership is subjective, in that it involves the feelings, beliefs, and values of others. I might suggest that management as we define it, is closer to the objective side of leadership – and leadership as we define it, is closely aligned with the subjective side.
In many respects, I have wondered if we have not caused confusion and misunderstanding in our profession by insisting on a difference between management and leadership. This dichotomy may have not served us well.The eight nationally recognized authors represented in Educational Administration: The Roles of Leadership and Management clearly address both sides of this dichotomy – and do so in meaningful and understandable ways. And they present meaningful dialogue on the important aspect of management. Yes, the pendulum seems to swing back and forth, as lead author Dembowski states. But all eight authors make this point: Leadership and management are both important functions, but they have different purposes and they seek to obtain different outcomes.
This is truly a great addition to the knowledge base in educational administration. I am hopeful that you will enjoy the book, and find it useful in your classes. Theodore Creighton - Virginia Tech
This module has been peer-reviewed, accepted, and sanctioned by the National Council of the Professors of Educational Administration (NCPEA) as a scholarly contribution to the knowledge base in educational administration.
