Understanding Instructional Leadership by Understanding Instructional Systems

• In Event: Urban School Leadership

Abstract

In this study, I explore the potential relationship between instructional leadership and instructional systems. Drawing on case studies of three, high-poverty, urban schools, I examine the challenges and affordances of instructional leadership in each of the different instructional systems. Analysis of semi-structured interviews, observations, and curricula suggest that a lack of a shared, systematic approach to instruction may be a barrier to instructional leadership. In contrast, the presence of an aligned instructional system may be a resource for instructional leadership aimed at improving teaching and learning.

Author

• Christine M. Neumerski, Vanderbilt University - Peabody College