Developing Social Justice Leadership Competence to Address Opportunity Gaps: Results from a Simulations Intervention

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Thursday 7:45 am
  In Roundtable Session: Reimagining Preparation Programs for Equity and Social Justice Leaders

Abstract

Innovative preparation programs invest time and effort in creating experiential and situated learning opportunities in attempts to bridge theory and practice. However, empirical evidence of the effectiveness of these approaches remain limited. The purpose of this study was to test the potential of a simulated practicum on the development of targeted leadership competencies. Over two academic semesters, aspiring leaders randomly assigned to an intervention group engaged in a total of four, course-embedded simulated experiences to navigate disorienting dilemmas related to culturally responsive teaching and leadership as well as equity and data-driven leadership for both equity and social justice. Findings suggest there are tangible affordances to such a practicum as aspiring leaders develop leadership self-efficacy and build a leadership identity.

Authors

• Daniel Moraguez, Florida State University

• Secil Caskurlu, Florida State University

• Ravi Bhatt, Florida State University

• Seunghee Park, Florida State University