8085 Discussion 1

Again, read a selection of your colleagues’ postings.

Respond to at least one additional colleague’s postings in the following way of a 140 word response:

· Suggest another leadership theory and/or behavior and explain how it could be beneficial to the situation your colleague described.

Amy Brown

    Relationship/Transformational Theory I found compeling, this theory is the process by which a person engages with others and is able to "create a connection" that results in increased motivation and morality in both followers and leaders. Relationship theories in which leaders with certain qualitities, have confidence and clearly stated values and are able to motivate others to follow (Lambert, 2013). I believe leaders guide, motivate, observe and take copious notes before taking control over the situation. This theory speaks to my values as a teacher who motivated parents and colleagues of why teambuilding is important in setting goals in a child's education. During my teaching years in the 4 year old classroom, I would send home motivational newsletters to parents each month, updating them on current policies affecting the center and other concerns parents may have. My director encouraged other teachers to participate in creating their own motivational newsletters. Leadership styles motivate followers, as a leader you must be able to communicate effectively. 

Another theory that compels to me is the Participative Theory. Participative leaders encourage participation and contributes from group members and help group members to feel relevant and committed to the decision-making process. Stated in affirmatively, good leaders create many high-exchange" relationships as possible (Whl-Bien, 1995). The Participative Theory reminds me of my former director who held monthly meetings in which involved the teachers input on what worked during instructional learning and what part of the lesson needed improvement. The director encouraged participation from all the teachers on decision making and the importance of the role teachers have in a child's development. A good leader uses Participative leadership, rather than making all the decisions, the leader seeks to involve everyone.  

References:

Amanchukwu, R. N., Stanley, J, G., Ololube, N. P. (2015). A review of leadership theories, principles and styles and their relevance to educational  mangagement, Mangagment, 5(1), 6-14, doi:10.5923/j.mm.20150501.02 Van Wart, M. (2013). Lessons from leadership theory and the contemporary challenges of leaders. Public Administration Review, 73(4), 553-565,        doi:10.1111/puar.12069