A Needs Assessment of Educational Leadership Preparation Programs

• In Event: School Leadership Preparation Programs: What Are We Missing? How to Make Them Better?

Abstract

This cross-sectional survey captured educational leadership preparation programs’ (ELPPs’) relative emphases on 12 evidence-based competencies and related pedagogical approaches to identify the gap between optimal performance per the literature base and actual practice in the 19 percent of the 605 U.S. ELPP respondents. Results indicate instructional leadership and use of data are especially emphasized competencies, and readings and class-based work were the most prevalent modes of instruction. This suggests that students do not receive the full range of developmental opportunities necessary to build the full range of competencies needed of 21st-century school leaders.

Authors

• Sara L. Dexter, University of Virginia

• Daniel Moraguez, University of Virginia

• Davis Clement, Eastern Michigan University