Understanding the Relationship Between Adult Development and a Leadership Preparation Program: A Pilot Study

• In Event: School Leadership Preparation: A Multidimensional Endeavor

Abstract

This study probes the connections between leadership professional learning and adult development within a state university principal preparation program. In this pilot study, the research team interviewed eight recent graduates of a two-year, 36-credit graduate degree program leading to principal licensure in a northeast U.S. state. After completing the program in the summer of 2021, each participant took part in two interviews: a semi-structured interview focused on their professional growth in the program, and a subject-object interview (SOI) to better understand each participant’s adult developmental capacity. Results suggest a range of adult ways of knowing, rich connections between adult development and professional growth, and multiple implications for program design and refinement.

Authors

• James Noonan, Salem State University
  Presenting Author

• Jacy Ippolito, Salem State University
  Presenting Author

• Megin Charner-Laird, Salem State University
  Presenting Author