Modern Philosophy: Its Influence on Selected School administrators
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Modern Philosophy: Its Influence on Selected School administrators
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Modern Philosophy: Its Influence on Selected School administrators
Researchers
Eva D. Arcena Agnes Lois L. Balite Teresita N. Banag Nanelyn T. Bontoyan Joey M. Cadano Maria Lagrimas C. Calapati Emy D. Delgado Ma. Consuelo L. Dimaya Leo S.Faustino
Francisco P. Javier Carmina G. Joson Maria Charlene P. Melegrito Shiela Grace E.Nollen Cecilia D. Pelejo Juzy L. Saguil Carolyn Joy S. Salinas
Fr. Engelbert N. Samonte, OSA
Alma Trinidad R. Taragua
Dr. Shirley Padua Professor
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Modern Philosophy: Its Influence on Selected School administrators
Abstract
Introduction
This paper presented the effect of modern
Philosophic issues always have had and
philosophy in selected school administrator. A
still do have an impact on schools and society.
qualitative study that answered three questions
Contemporary society and its
about their ideal school, what specific philosophy
changing fundamentally and rapidly, much more
did they follow and how does this philosophy
so than in the past. There is a special urgency that
guide/influence
administrator?
dictates continuous appraisal and reappraisal of
Descriptive research method was used to gather
the role of schools, and calls for a philosophy of
pertinent information and in identifying the
education. Without philosophy, educators are
philosophy of selected notable higher institution
directionless in the whats and hows of organizing
leaders of our times.
and implementing what we are trying to achieve.
you
as
an
schools
are
Our philosophy of education influences, and to a Based on the result, as an administrator, they
large
extent
determines,
our
educational
are committed to lifelong learning, encouraging
decisions, choices, and alternatives (Ornstein,
relationships, academic excellence, personal and
2000).
professional
growth,
respect,
diversity,
collaboration, open communication, organization, creativity,
work
ethic,
moral
Philosophers
themselves
can
contribute
leadership,
substantially to rational decision making both in
community, and responsibility. At the heart of the
their campuses and in their communities. Because
school community is the people who make up the
of their breadth, their analytical skills, their
organization; the individuals are the most
interdisciplinary perspective, and their training in
important pieces to the success of the school.
dealing with normative questions, they can
They will not be a perfect leader, they will make
contribute cogently to resolving public policy
mistakes, but they will stay true to their values
issues; and they can offer out-of-school adults,
and what philosophy they have is best for the
whether in public lectures, in workshops,
school. Page 4
Modern Philosophy: Its Influence on Selected School administrators or in continuing education courses, a unique
School leaders have been identified as critical
approach to important topics. Philosophers can
to successful schools. As a leader, one should be
also serve as consultants on a variety of problems.
able to clearly and concisely articulate his/
Philosophical reflection can be brought to bear on
her philosophy of leadership. Every action, every
any subject matter whatsoever; every discipline
decision, every reaction, every plan should be
raises questions that philosophical investigation
filtered through that philosophy making the
can help clarify; and every domain of human
leader‘s philosophy his/her compass. It keeps the
existence confronts us with problems on which
leader and the organization on a synchronized
philosophical reflection can shed light.
track. The leadership philosophy also gives consistency. With a leadership philosophy, the
Ornstein (2000) stated that few schools adopt a
leader‘s actions and responses are driven by that
single philosophy; in practice, most schools
philosophy. One‘s actions and reactions are in
combine various philosophies. Moreover, the
context. They are predictable. There is less fear of
author‘s position is that no single philosophy, old
the unknown.. The philosophy should be based on
or new, should serve as the exclusive guide for
a foundation of principles or values that are of
making decisions about schools. All philosophical
significance to the leader. These principles guide
groups want the same things of education – that is,
him/her in the practical affairs of leadership.
they wish to improve the educational process, to enhance the achievement of the learner, to
The study aimed to determine the management
produce better and more productive citizens, and
philosophies
of
school
administrators.
The
to improve society. Because of their different
investigation is centered on their pedagogical
views of reality, values, and knowledge, however,
experiences and the philosophies that encouraged
they find it difficult to agree on how to achieve
them to stay in the position. This would explore
these ends.
further modern philosophical ideas which in one way or another have influenced the beliefs and
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Modern Philosophy: Its Influence on Selected School administrators practices of school leaders.
economic background, and educational views.
Without a framework for broad issues and tasks,
curriculum
no
On teacher learning, their trust of staff, and
curriculum
their focus on student support, common purpose
specialists with this framework. John Goodland
and collaboration, are all geared to the facilitation
(1979) agrees that philosophy is the beginning
of student achievement.
direction.
work
Philosophy
will
provides
have
point in curriculum decision-making and is the basis for all subsequent decisions regarding
The work of the administrators has become
curriculum. John Dewey asserts that: ―education
more tough, stressful and complex. Contemporary
is the laboratory which school philosophic
scholars such as Duke, Tucker, Salmonowicz and
distinctions becomes concrete and is tested.‖
Levy (2006) have observed that the lack of effective leadership in schools lowers students‘
Philosophy administrators,
and
provides curriculum,
teachers,
achievement because the absence of quality
committees
leadership often results in ill- adapted school
composed of leaders from different sectors of
organization and programs.
society, consultants, and subject-area specialist with framework for planning, implementing, and
Foundations of curriculum do not arise in a
evaluating curricula in schools. Philosophy helps
vacuum. As curriculum development is heavily
in answering what schools are for, in determining
influenced by philosophy, those involved in such
what subjects are important, and in selecting
planning should be clear about contemporary,
appropriate methods and instructional materials to
dominant philosophy. If we are unclear about our
use.
philosophy of education, our curriculum plans and teaching procedures will tend to be inconsistent The philosophy of a curriculum planner,
and confused. Further, we need to be constantly
implementer, evaluator reflects his or her life
open to new ideas and insights that may lead to a
experiences,
revision or refinement of our philosophies. Our
common
beliefs,
social,
and Page 6
Modern Philosophy: Its Influence on Selected School administrators position should be that no single philosophy, old or
The distinguished selected Academic Leader-
new, should serve as the exclusive guide for
respondents were interviewed using an open-ended
making decisions about curriculum. What we, as
questionnaires specifically crafted for this study.
curriculum specialists, need to do, is to adopt an
The open-ended questionnaire was designed to
eclectic approach, in which there is no undue
elicit
emphasis on one particular philosophy. In essence,
educational leaders.
key
information
from
the
selected
what we need is a prudent philosophy-one that is politically and economically feasible and that serves the needs of students and society.
During the direct interviews the questionnaires was use as the guide in gathering pertinent information
from
the
respondents.
Careful
subsequent interviews and conversations during
Methodology
the direct observation procedures were conducted in a very professional manner.
The descriptive research method was used to gather pertinent information and in identifying the
Other than
interview, field observations were used to gather the data about the institutions involved.
philosophy of selected notable higher institution leaders of our times from selected universities in
Follow-up
communications
with
research
the Philippines. Using a highly selective method
participants to ensure the accuracy of qualitative
of identifying the subjects of this research, the
data coding and categorization was conducted.
leaders were purposively sampled. In this method,
This
the intent of the researcher of is explicitly stated
information among the institutions‘ stakeholders.
also
provided
additional
background
using a guide or criteria in choosing the samples out of the population. Certain characteristics/
The use of various descriptive statistical
qualities of the randomly selective respondents are
treatments such as Frequency and Percentage
critically identified.
Distribution
and
other
descriptive
measures
allowed the researcher to process, present and Page 7
Modern Philosophy: Its Influence on Selected School administrators analyze data gathered.
Statistical graphs and
The respondent no. 1 answered the first
charts were also applied in profiling of the
question. For her, an ideal school is anchored on
respondents and show comparisons in the
the belief and practice of allowing and giving
presentations.
opportunities to the learners to realize their full potential as human beings. It is liberal and
Discussion and Interpretation Our nine (9) respondents answered the
teachers discipline and propriety to the students.
The children can become anyone they want to
following questions through interview:
be, the possibilities are endless. As parents and
1. For you, what is an ideal school?
teachers, we recognize the children‘s strengths
2.
As
an
administrator,
what
specific
philosophy do you follow? and
and can see their potential. But while young, they may only see the barriers and roadblocks
3. How does this philosophy guide/influence you as an administrator?
standing in their way. They do not see their full potential and they do not believe they have what it takes to be successful. Luckily, we can help.
1. For you, what is an ideal school?
Here are five suggestions for helping your
The nine (9) respondents have almost the same view about an ideal school. Some of them
children reach their full potential and achieve success in their lives.
believe that the learners are in the center of the school vision and mission.
The curriculum
Provide opportunities
should be focused on developing the students to their full potential in a holistic and humanistic manner.
When the children attempt new things, they
Here are their responses that are
find hidden talents. They find activities that they
supported by what the philosophers and some
enjoy and skills that become valuable throughout
authors have to say.
their entire lives. Provide opportunities for the children to find these talents, skills and passions.
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Modern Philosophy: Its Influence on Selected School administrators Let the children try new sports, extra-curricular
that you choose. Be supportive of the child‘s
activities, jobs, classes and more. Be encouraging
decisions. The support shows the love and your
and helpful as they try to find things they love to
willingness to assist them in whatever activities
do. However, be smart about what activities and
they pursue. When they don‘t show that support,
classes the children choose to try. Too many
the children will have a more difficult time finding
activities at once can become overwhelming and
activities they enjoy and want to continue. When
stressful and will most likely result in a quitter
challenges and failure come along, the child will
instead of an achiever.
be more likely to quit and give up than push forward and reach his or her potential.
Praise your child Teach commitment Let the children know when you are proud of them. Let them know when they do something
If we want our child to succeed, you must
right. Your praise and recognition means a lot to a
teach him what it takes to be committed. Teach
child. It can build them up, even when they have
your children to be committed to the activities,
low confidence and self-esteem. When children
classes and jobs they decide to pursue. Let
receive praise, they are more likely to continue
children try new opportunities but encourage them
trying because they want their parent‘s approval.
to see the activity through and not quit in the
Praise is a way to encourage and a way to help
middle of the event. When children learn to be
boost up your child‘s confidence and self-worth.
committed, they become valuable assets to their future employers, family members, neighbors and
Support your child‘s decisions
friends.
The children are individuals. They have their
Set goals together
own loves and passions and they won‘t always choose hobbies, sports, activities and even careers Page 9
When your child is a goal-oriented individual,
Modern Philosophy: Its Influence on Selected School administrators he is more willing to reach his potential. Set goals
espoused
with your children to motivate and drive them. You
institutions which advocates that members of
can even use incentives and be their own personal
companies or nation-states have certain roles and
cheerleader as they learn to set goals and what it
responsibilities to society and the environment,
takes to accomplish them.
although those members may not have specific
No matter who your child is, he has much
by
organizations
and
educational
governing roles.
potential. Children have the ability to accomplish things that may seem out of reach, they may just
Active citizenship can be seen as an articulation
need a little help. Be there for your children and
of the debate over rights versus responsibilities. If a
watch them achieve their full potential.
body gives rights to the people under its remit, then those
same
people
might
have
certain
While the respondent no. 2 believed that an idea
responsibilities to uphold. This would be most
school is more than just a physical structure with
obvious at a country or nation-state level, but could
its state-of-art facilities and laboratories, but should
also be of wider scope, such as the Internet
embrace the idea and belief that all students can
(Netizen) or Earth (global citizenship). The
learn in whatever ability and capacity they possess.
implication is that an active citizen is one who
Curriculum must be relevant to match students‘
fulfills both their rights and responsibilities in a
needs and develop their potentials to be useful
balanced way.
citizens
of
the
country.
Faculty
must
be
knowledgeable and competent, able to adapt and
On the other hand, the respondent no. 3 shared
integrate technology and values in their instruction.
her views that an ideal school is one that is focused
Learning space must be good and spacious enough
on achieving the Vision, Mission and Core Values
for both faculty and students to be able to explore
of the institution. Every member of the school
more possibilities for instruction and learning.
community
is
geared
towards
the
holistic
development of the learners. Excellence is the word Active citizenship refers to a philosophy Page 10
that describes every output. And the environment is
Modern Philosophy: Its Influence on Selected School administrators characterized by love, discipline and unity.
provide the academic needs of the students including the best curriculum and complete
Holistic education is a philosophy of education
facilities. In addition, the school can protect and
based on the premise that each person finds
give full benefits to the faculty members and staff.
identity, meaning, and purpose in life through connections to the community, to the natural
Learning
essential
skills
through
vetted
resources.
world, and to humanitarian values such as compassion and peace. Holistic education aims to
The iPad and web-based solutions provide the
call forth from people an intrinsic reverence for
student with engaging, academically rigorous
life and a passionate love of learning. This is the
resources, activities, and quizzes aligned to his or
definition given by Ron Miller, founder of the
her skill levels and interests. Students that use a
journal Holistic Education Review (now entitled
variety or resources show high levels of
Encounter: Education for Meaning and Social
engagement
Justice). The term holistic education is often used
nationwide.
and
outperform
their
peers
to refer to the more democratic and humanistic types of alternative education. Robin Ann Martin
Preparing your student for real-world success
(2003) describes this further by stating, ―At its most general level, what distinguishes holistic
Re-teaching videos and creation projects ask
education from other forms of education are its
students to synthesize and apply their learning,
goals, its attention to experiential learning, and
building the critical thinking skills students need
the significance that it places on relationships and
in order to succeed in school and life. Student
primary human values within the learning
work is celebrated on the screen and in the
environment.‖
classroom, and projects can be downloaded and shared with your family.
The respondent no. 4 emphasized that an ideal school must have administrators who can strictly
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However, the respondent no. 5 gave her very
Modern Philosophy: Its Influence on Selected School administrators short description of an ideal school. For her, it is
from different disciplines and backgrounds conjoin
humanistic institution which develops students
to discuss the humanities and their implications in
holistically.
modern life. Julian Montaño, IE University Coordinator of Academic Innovation, says that ―a
―Our humanistic approach provides a holistic
person with training in the humanities is a person
vision of life. We have to be humble and recognize
with a very rich vocabulary and a much greater
the legacy that was left to us by earlier generations.
conceptual range than someone without it. Such a
What the humanistic approach does is to recognize
person is able to describe reality in many more
that legacy, then build on it to develop new
ways than others. This person is able to see
realities‖. Salvador Carmona, Rector of IE
further‖. The focus of IE University is to train a
University, explained this when we asked him
new generation of inventors, visionaries, and world
about the importance of studying humanities
-changers and they need to explore humanities as
during undergraduate education. For IE University,
this allows them to discover new paths to reveal
maintaining a humanistic approach to teaching is
unusual aspects of traditional realities. Julian
an essential part of the institution‘s DNA. This
Montaño explains further that ―for IE University,
pioneering
innovative
the study of humanities is about developing the
methodologies on a humanistic spirit that broadens
ability to constantly shake up our own mental
education and allows its students to view the world
kaleidoscope and be able to reconfigure reality
from different perspectives and realities.
again and again. That is what society, companies
institution
anchors
its
and institutions expect of 21st-century educators‖. The introduction of the humanities in all curriculums is one of the key elements helping IE
The respondent no. 6 shared her thoughts that
University to redefine uniqueness. Students learn
an ideal school is animated and driven by its
humanities since year one independently of what
vision, mission and core values. It is distinguished
degree they are studying. Our approach to the
by a culture of excellence where each and every
humanities is an inclusive one, where students
member
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work
collaboratively
for
the
total
Modern Philosophy: Its Influence on Selected School administrators development of the learners and transformation company actually does. It should be short and easy to of the society. Love, respect, service to others memorize. A lot of companies get this wrong and end and concern for the common good permeate the up using big fancy words that don‘t tell us anything. school environment. The members of the school Your mission statement should also be specific community consistently work together for the enough that people understand what you do and how continuous growth and development of the it may differ from your competitors. institution. Vision Statement:
This is what your
It‘s an easy mistake to make; especially if you company aspires to be; which can be much different are in the midst of some heavy strategic planning than what a company is (mission statement). When for next year. We often write things we think we done right, your vision statement can and should help should say, rather than who we really are, what drive decisions and goals in your company. we believe in, and what we aim to achieve. Core Values: Core values are what support To make matters worse, a lot of these the vision, shape the culture, and reflect what your business components are often written by the company values.
They are your company‘s
wrong people. As a result, they have zero principles, beliefs, or philosophy of values. Try alignment to any of the work actually done limiting your core values to five. Once you get within an organization.
beyond this it‘s hard for your employees to remember.
When done right, your core values, mission and vision statements, and goals should all tie in
Meanwhile, the respondent no. 7 focused in
to each other. The trick is on the knowledge how
great reputation that an ideal school should have.
each of these parts differs, and then finding a
This great reputation is widened by quality and
way to tie them together.
impact of graduates were achieved a high level of
Mission Statement: This is what your
services.
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Modern Philosophy: Its Influence on Selected School administrators AIT President said. He stated that the world is Reading the messages of Prof. Carmichael qualitatively different place today due to the and President of Asian Institute of Technology processes of globalization, the digital revolution, Worsak Kanok-Nukulchai, they emphasize that mass
migration,
the quality of graduates will tell the society the environmental kind of university they have.
and
the
move
towards
sustainability.
These
changes
demand a new breed of graduates, and we need to nurture students with global competencies so that
It is graduates that are a true measure of the they can meet the global demands of tomorrow, quality of a university rather than ranking systems. Prof. Worsak added. Addressing graduates on the occasion of the 126th graduation of the Asian Institute of Technology
The respondent no. 8 agreed with other
(AIT) on 15 December 2016, Prof. David respondents that an ideal school must live-up with Carmichael stated that while ranking systems its vision, mission and objectives. For her, an ideal provide for good measurements, they are not school should perform its major functions in suitable while comparing universities. It is the instructions, research extension and production. It students that are a true reflection of the quality of also a university, he said in his graduation address.
must
have a medium
and long-term
development plans.
AIT President Prof. Worsak Kanok-
The last respondent shared her thoughts
Nukulchai termed graduation as a ―proud moment
that an ideal school is a full-service school,
for all graduates.‖ Describing life as a journey,
one that meets all the needs for development
Prof. Worsak said that the accomplishments at AIT
of the students, primarily, and those of the
should be taken as a starting point for further
faculty,
achievements. ―With this rare experience, each one
secondarily.
It
of you should be in a good position to serve as a
implements
and
role model of a globally responsible citizen,‖ the
programs
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including
that
the
continuously evaluates promote
administrator, plans
for,
educational the
holistic
Modern Philosophy: Its Influence on Selected School administrators development of the students, and faculty in the
What makes children a special case for
physical, mental, emotional, social and spiritual
philosophical consideration is this combination of
dimension and within the context of quality and
their humanity and their youth, or, more exactly,
excellence, and grounded on Catholic principle in
what is thought to be associated with their youth.
order to be of service to individuals, families and
One very obvious way in which the question of
communities, both in the local and the global
what children are entitled to do or to be or to have is
spheres.
raised is by asking, Do children have rights? If so, do they have all the rights that adults have and do
For her, the real ‗ideal‘ does not exist, it only
they have rights that adults do not have? If they do
resides in the mind, something that one keeps on
not have rights how do we ensure that they are
pursuing, keeps on targeting as the ultimate goal…
treated in the morally right way? Most jurisdictions
the vision.. the outcome of all endeavors. It is for
accord children legal rights. Most countries—
this that if administrators keep their eyes on this
though not the United States of America—have
‗ideal‘ as the goal, there will be no end to the
ratified the United Nations Convention on the
growth and development of all-- students, faculty,
Rights of the Child which was first adopted in 1989.
administrators and the community.
The Convention accords to children a wide range of rights including, most centrally, the right to have
2.
As
an
administrator,
what
specific
philosophy do you follow?
their ‗best interests‘ be ‗a primary consideration‘ in all actions concerning them (Article 3), the ‗inherent right to life‘ (Article 6), and the right of a
For the question no. 2, the respondent no. 1
child ―who is capable of forming his or her own
believed that there‘s a philosophy that advocates
views … to express these views freely in all matters
love for the welfare of the students. For her, love
affecting the child‖ (Article 12) (United Nations
allows a happy environment for the learners and the
1989). However it is normal to distinguish between
school workers and discipline is enforced with love.
‗positive‘ rights, those that are recognized in law, and ‗moral‘ rights, those that are recognized by
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Modern Philosophy: Its Influence on Selected School administrators some moral theory. That children have ‗positive‘
education is simply for a cost; but if knowledge is
rights does not then settle the question of whether
shared
they do or should have moral rights. However there
something in return, then the education becomes a
are at least good political reasons why one might
worthwhile fulfilment and accomplishment to
think that the UNCRC provides an exemplary
serve and effect the change in the society we live
statement – in the language of positive rights – of
in.
and
transferred,
without
expecting
how children should be treated and regarded.
There are only scraps of his work On
Nevertheless the idea of children as rights holders
Education; however we can get a picture of his
has been subject to different kinds of philosophical
ideas from surviving works. Aristotle believed that
criticism.
At the same time there has been
education was central – the fulfilled person was an
philosophical consideration of what kinds of rights
educated person… our thinking and practice as
children have if they do have any rights at all. The
educators must be infused with a clear philosophy
various debates shed light on both the nature and
of life. There has to be a deep concern for the
value of rights, and on the moral status of children.
ethical and political. We have continually to ask what makes for human flourishing. From this we
Through her experiences, the respondent no. 2 revealed that since her high school days she loves
should act to work for that which is good or ‗right‘, rather than that which is merely ‗correct‘.
collecting quotations, poems and proverbs even up to this day. Those quotations from known
Second, along with many others in his time, he
personalities and ordinary people serve as her
placed a strong emphasis on all round and
guides in her daily life activities, With the status
‗balanced‘ development. Play, physical training,
where she is now, her guiding light comes from
music, debate, and the study of science and
Aristotle which states that ―educating the mind
philosophy were to all have their place in the
without educating the heart is no education at all‖.
forming of body, mind and soul. Like Plato before
If sharing knowledge and wisdom is equated with
him, he saw such learning happening through life –
monetary compensation, it can be said that
although with different emphases at different ages.
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Modern Philosophy: Its Influence on Selected School administrators establishes the hermeneutic framework by which Third, he looked to both education through
texts are interpreted. It is that mental medium
reason and education through habit. By the latter he
through which the world is known. Human life in
meant learning by doing – ‗Anything that we have
its variegated aspects, so it seems, precedes
to learn to do we learn by the actual doing of it…
‗kardioptically‖ – out of a vision of an embodied
We become just by doing just acts, temperate by
heart living in the world. (Naugle, 2004, p. 27)
doing temperate ones, brave by doing brave ones.‘ (Aristotle Niconachean Ethics, Book II,
If Naugle is right, then the heart of education is
p.91). Such learning is complemented by reason –
really the education of the heart. Further research
and this involves teaching ‗the causes of things‘.
will endeavor to discover why this may occur, how
We can see here a connection with more recent
it may or may not occur, and what benefits or
theorists
losses may be forthcoming if education is not of
that
have
emphasized
experience,
reflection and connecting to theories.
the heart, but of the intellect alone.
While the respondent no. 3 used her heart in
I believe that this study will have much to offer
managing the school. She believed that the heart of
a) in seeing education as being delivered or
education is the education of the heart. Any
practiced
learning experience should result to a changed life.
throughout postmodern culture, b) in viewing the
Every learner‘s behaviors and values should
effects of philosophical worldview contours on
manifest the love, respect and discipline that the
educational experience and life practice, and c) on
school is known for.
seeing how education serves to create a public as
‗religiously‘
in
institutional
life
well as to serve one. A worldview, then, constitutes the symbolic universe that has profound implications on a
Although the research is still in the early stages,
variety of significant human practices. It digs the
participants are speaking about worldview as being
channels in which the waters of reason flow. It
highly valued and significant in the course of
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Modern Philosophy: Its Influence on Selected School administrators educational practice and in life choices after formal
results in improved competency and commitment
education have ended. I believe the results of this
to work, increased employee morale, and work
research will have much to offer educators who
satisfaction (Source: The U.S. Office of Personnel
want to become accountable in the stories they
Management).
embody.
creativity and innovation because the employee is
It‘s
also
known
to
improve
more invested in the future of the organization. ―Manpower is power‖, as respondent no. 4 shared her philosophy as an administrator. For her,
However, according to a study (Source: AMA
if faculty members and staff are given attention
Enterprise, 2013), leaders recognize a significant
especially their needs, they would be more
lack of accountability on the part of employees. In
motivated at work. If they are neglected, it would
fact, 21 percent of respondents stated that
affect their performances; as a result, the school
unaccountable employees make up 30-50 percent
would not fully achieve its mission and vision.
of their workforce.
Power in terms of the workers available to a
Accountability in the Workplace
particular group or required for a particular task and defined as the power supplied by human
High performance teams and organizations empower employees to take ownership, they foster
physical exertions.
a accountability, and they have a high levels of While ―accountability and transparency‖ is all
trust between all levels of the organization.
the things that an administrator should do as
Furthermore, there‘s a strong link between these
respondent no. 5 answered.
three
Tanner (2016) Accountability in the workplace
values
and
characteristics
of
high
performance.
is something every manager wants to have.
Ownership is about taking initiative and doing
Accountability has a clear link to higher work
the right thing for the business. It‘s about taking
performance, but experts indicate that it also
responsibility for results and not assuming it‘s not
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Modern Philosophy: Its Influence on Selected School administrators someone else‘s responsibility. At minimum, taking ownership means that if you recognize something is
The second is that when we don‘t hold ourselves
material to achieving results, that you take the
accountable, the impact is exponential. Your delay
initiative to bring it to the attention of the right
becomes your team‘s delay. The work they had
people. If ownership is about taking initiative,
planned gets impacted and that work potentially has
accountability is about follow through and getting
further
done what you said you‘d get done. It‘s recognizing
Importance of Accountability on Teams, explains the
that other team members are dependant on the results
lesson of punctuality on the Canadian ski team: when
of your work and not wanting to let them down. It‘s
10 people are waiting for you, if you are 2 minutes
about good, open, pro-active communication to keep
late – it‘s not just 2 minutes lost – the team has lost
team members informed on the status of your
22 minutes.
downstream
effects.
The
post,
The
commitments because you respect that the results of your work has a direct impact on their ability to make
Similarly, lack of accountability can snowball in a
their own commitments. Ultimately, when team
team, department and organization. Tolerating missed
members consistently demonstrate ownership and
deadlines, lack of punctuality and un-finished work
accountability, trust is formed.
has the tendency to make this behavior ―no big deal‖. People learn that the real deadline is a week from the
Without accountability, execution suffers. This happens in two ways.
published one; that consistently being 10 min late for a meeting is the norm; that sub-par work is acceptable in the interest of ―getting it done‖ (which
The first is that when we don‘t hold ourselves
should not be confused with pushing yourself to ship
accountable to getting work done well and on time,
and not over-work a project). The cumulative impact
there‘s a tendency to become even more lenient and
across an organization can be substantial. One clear
forgiving for slippages. A day becomes a week, a
way to understand the impact of poor accountability
week a month. If it happens once, it‘s that little bit
is to imagine accountability in the context of the
more acceptable for it to happen again.
military. This HBR post, ―What Ever Happened to
Page 19
Modern Philosophy: Its Influence on Selected School administrators Accountability‖, Thomas Ricks covers the impact that
1.Better relationships
a move away from accountability had in the United
Employees don‘t just quit their jobs, they quit
States Army during the Vietnam War. Ultimately,
their bosses. In fact, a 2014 CareerBuilder survey
lack of accountability at the top level trickled down to
revealed that 37 percent of the 3,008 employees
many levels and had disastrous consequences.
surveyed were likely to leave their jobs due to a poor opinion about their boss‘s performance.
Believe it or not, a full quarter of employees don‘t trust their employer, according to a 2014 American
When it comes to building solid workplace
Psychological Association survey of 1,562 U.S.
relationships, trust takes center stage. Not only does
workers. What‘s more, the survey also found that
this demonstrate transparency to potential job seekers,
only about half believe their employer is open and
customers, etc., it also keeps employees involved and
upfront with them.
up to date on company happenings, successes and feedback.
This lack of trust is likely due to a lack of transparency
in
the
workplace.
Transparent
2. Better alignment
leadership is the key to fostering a culture of trust
Employee alignment, for transparency‘s sake,
between leaders and their employees. Employees who
means taking a look at the big picture and seeking to
are kept in the loop and understand their role in the
understand everyone‘s role within it. This is easily
overarching purpose and goals of the company are,
done when employers practice transparency in the
understandably, more likely to put their trust in their
workplace.
employer.
employees who understand the company vision and
By now, most of us have heard a thing or two
Transparent
leadership
results
in
how their efforts help achieve company-wide goals.
about how to achieve and sustain transparency in the workplace. Here are four reasons why that
3. Better solutions
transparency and culture of trust is necessary:
When leaders are transparent, problems are solved faster. By being open and honest about company Page 20
Modern Philosophy: Its Influence on Selected School administrators problems, employees can help find solutions. And two heads (or however many heads make up the company) are better than one.
Since the respondent no. 6 is an Augustinian. For her, she follows the Augustinian philosophy of service with humility. The role of leadership is
Social sharing app Buffer makes company performance
on
rights to find greatness in service to others. No one
business
can be a servant of others if he/she feels ―superior‖ or
performance and more. Not only does doing so
above the others. Humility is the virtue from which
increase accountability, it also highlights issues and
other aspects of true leadership will be constructed.
encourages employees to find solutions.
According to the rule of St. Augustine, a leader
customer
public
support,
with blog
progress
reports
always service to other. A leader gives up personal
performance,
should serve his brothers well if he holds a position 4. Better engagement
of responsibility, and do so without complaint and
A culture that values transparency in the
with good cheer, trying even to anticipate their needs.
workplace breeds engaged employees. In fact, Harvard
Business
Review‘s
2013
employee
When I think of a spirit of service, I believe its
engagement survey revealed that 70 percent of those
close friend is a spirit of humility says Mother
surveyed say they‘re most engaged when senior
Teresa.
leadership continually updates and communicates company strategy.
Humility requires us to take a keen look at ourselves. As the wise Mother Teresa once said; ―If
When it comes to engaging employees, it‘s best to
you are humble, nothing will touch you, neither
be open about company matters. LinkedIn CEO Jeff
praise nor disgrace, because you know what you
Weiner fosters an organization built on transparency.
are.‖ We know what we are: Sinners in need of a
He even takes the time to hold bi-weekly meetings,
Savior and saints who are called to serve. Our
during which he updates employees on company
sinfulness and saintliness are the primary reasons we
matters and listens to their suggestions.
need humility.
Page 21
Modern Philosophy: Its Influence on Selected School administrators interact with others. On the sinful hand, we know that were it not for the grace of God we would be eternally lost. Period.
Creating an inspiring mission and vision that
On the saintly hand, we know there is no greater
exhibits the values and aspirations of the university is
calling, or work, than to serve those for whom the
the philosophy of respondent no. 7. For her, it brings
kingdom of God is in fact, Good News — the poor.
the school to new heights in academic industry, guided
Apostle Paul — that enigmatic and passionate
by
the
core
values,
excellence
and
uprightness.
servant of God — reminds us in Ephesians 4: 1-3 (NIV) that:
Great journeys begin at the river. Knowing that each student comes to us with unique and infinite
―As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to
value, Christchurch School, as an Episcopal school,
live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be
inspires and guides each student‘s journey toward self
completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing
-confidence, purpose, and identity. To help students
with one another in love. Make every effort to keep
succeed in that journey, we provide a sound college
the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.‖
preparatory community.
education Part
of
in that
a
caring, education
structured includes
And Peter — the disciple formerly known as
stewardship of our river and awareness of the broader
Simon — calls us to serve, not as people who must,
natural environment so that our students learn to look
but as people who are willing as God wants us to be.
beyond themselves to their place in the world around
Not for money or praise, but because the reward of
them.
serving is in the privilege of serving (1 Peter 5:2-6).
Aspiration
is
being
connected
to
Self-
determination theory (SDT) is a macro theory of In order to keep the spirit of service in our hearts,
human motivation and personality that concerns
we must exude a courageous humble spirit. Let our
people's inherent growth tendencies and innate
attitudes always be teachable and moldable as we
psychological needs. It is concerned with the
Page 22
Modern Philosophy: Its Influence on Selected School administrators motivation behind choices people make without
include the need for competence, autonomy, and
external influence and interference. SDT focuses on
psychological relatedness.
the degree to which an individual's behavior is selfmotivated and self-determined.
―Excellence and Quality‖, that‘s what the school should bring up to the students as respondent
Key studies that led to emergence of SDT
no. 8 answered.
included research on intrinsic motivation. Intrinsic motivation refers to initiating an activity for its own
I was
casually discussing quality and
sake because it is interesting and satisfying in itself,
excellence with one of my old friends. We were
as opposed to doing an activity to obtain an external
exchanging our ideas on these topics, when I realized
goal (extrinsic motivation). Different types of
that he used the words quality and excellence
motivations have been described based on the degree
interchangeably. This led to some more thinking and
they have been internalized. Internalization refers to
here‘s what I realized:
the active attempt to transform an extrinsic motive into personally endorsed values and thus assimilate behavioral regulations that were originally external.
Quality is generally extrinsic. It is driven by external demands. We implement best practices in line with industry standards. We write our processes
Edward L. Deci and Richard Ryan later expanded
to get certified against a certain standard. We develop
on the early work differentiating between intrinsic
our products and services in line with the demands of
and extrinsic motivation and proposed three main
our customers. When we continuously meet these
intrinsic
demands, adhere to processes and improve upon
needs
involved
in
self-determination.
According to Deci and Ryan, the three psychological
them, we build repeatability in our success.
needs motivate the self to initiate behavior and specify nutriments that are essential for psychological
Excellence is always intrinsic. It is our innate
health and well-being of an individual. These needs
desire to go out of our way to deliver a superior
are said to be universal, innate and psychological and
experience. Not because someone else demands it,
Page 23
Modern Philosophy: Its Influence on Selected School administrators but because ‗you‘ want it that way. It is for your own
the close inter-relationship between quality and
satisfaction of having done a great job. Excellence is
excellence is important. Defining them clearly is
a ‗people‘ game, and the one that pushes quality one
important. Getting people to excel, driving their
step forward. In either case, people are at the
motivation, creating a constantly improving culture
fulcrum.
and
striking
balance
between
adherence
and
motivation are big challenge leaders face. In my view, quality is a route to excellence. People can do their best, walk that extra-mile and
Lastly, according to the last respondent, she
think of adding value once they are absolutely clear
follows
the
simple
of how to do the basic things right. Processes given
philosophy of living, teaching, and leading, and this
them a firm base on which they can build excellence.
permeates
On the other hand, excellent people may fumble if
professional life as a nurse-educator- administrator.
every
philosophy,
facet
of
her
the
Catholic
personal
and
they are not supported with right set of guidelines on delivering quality.
To educate literally means "to rear or to lead out" (Webster, 1928) and is related to the Latin word
Secondly, excellence has a lot to do with people‘s
―educere‖, meaning "to bring out or lead forth". The
motivation to do a great job. It is their choice.
concept of rearing, along with the scriptural
Getting people to exercise their choice of delivering
mandates of Deut. 4:9; 6:7-9; and 11:19, indicate that
excellence is #1 leadership challenge. It starts with
it is parents who have primary responsibility for
getting the right people and building the right culture.
educating their children, not the state, society, or even the church. Therefore, as a Christian school, we
Finally, just like quality, excellence is a moving
see ourselves as partners with parents in assisting
target. Todays‘ excellent becomes tomorrow‘s good
them to fulfill their Biblical responsibilities. This
enough and day-after-tomorrow‘s mediocre.
requires school personnel to be actively involved and working in conjunction with parents in the education
Pursuing excellence is a worthy goal. Knowing
of their children.
Page 24
Modern Philosophy: Its Influence on Selected School administrators gifts, and callings in each child. The meaning of "to lead out" implies a leader and one being led, i.e. a teacher and a student. A Christian
In Christian education, our primary goal is to
school teacher, therefore, is responsible for knowing
bring a child to the knowledge of God, leading to
where and how a student is to be led. Recognizing
saving faith and then to help them grow in their trust
that a student when fully trained will become like his
in Christ and His good news. The teaching of good
teacher (Luke 6:40) makes it imperative that a teacher
character qualities and moral principles provide a
in a Christian school not only be skilled in teaching
framework for successful life skills, social wellbeing,
methods and knowledgeable in his or her subject area,
and protection from certain behavioral consequences,
but he or she must also have a relationship with Jesus
however, we are intentional in clearly proclaiming
Christ, be able to integrate Biblical truth in his or her
that righteousness, that is right relationship with God,
subject area, and exemplify Christ-like character.
comes not by our conduct or morals, but by our trust in the person and work of Jesus Christ. We, therefore,
The meaning of "to bring out" may imply to bring
seek to create an environment of grace and
out of ignorance, but when the phrase is seen as to
acceptance that allows for imperfection and struggles
bring out the God-given gifting or inclinations of a
with full trust that the righteousness of Jesus is
child, it corresponds more closely with the Proverb,
sufficient to save us and transform us. (Rom. 3:21-26;
"Train up a child in the way he should go, and when
Gal. 3:24; Col. 2:20)
he is old, he will not depart from it" (Prov. 22:6) 3. How does this philosophy guide/influence
Many commentators interpret "in the way he should go" not just as doing things God's way, but also as
you as an administrator?
training in accordance to a child's nature and
For the last question, respondent no. 1 answered
temperament. When we recognize that children differ
that philosophy has made her more understanding of
in how they are "fearfully and wonderfully made" (Ps.
the behavior of students, teachers, and staff. No harsh
139:14), we see that teachers must differentiate their
treatment of people you administer-only kindness and
instruction so that they can "bring out" the talents,
care and doing service for them whole heartedly.
Page 25
Modern Philosophy: Its Influence on Selected School administrators
This idea was supported by Ross (2012) who
Supron (2013) stated that service is not possible
said that philosophy gives us more than just
unless it is rooted in love and ahimsa. He supported
knowledge of the world; they give us a deep
the idea of Gandhi who believed that by living a life
understanding of how the world works, even how it
focused beyond your own personal needs you are
should work.
able to better serve humanity and make the world a better place. According to him, a good deed can
However,
through
her
experiences,
ripple out in many ways; not only through its effect
respondent no. 2 was able to share how philosophy
on those being served, but by encouraging others to
guides and influences her in running a school.
serve.
According to her, she rose from the ranks of a
Gandhi‘s ideals the world would be a better place.
He believes that if people were to live by
simple faculty member who strived and worked hard for her intellectual growth. She have computed a lot
Meanwhile, respondent no. 3 emphasized the
of statistics and edited researches, theses and
importance of philosophy which serves as her guide
dissertation before she was able to accomplish her
in all areas of her leadership. For her, to serve with
own. Being an administrator, it is a difficult task but
passion, the word of God as light, allows her to lead
she learned to value her time and set priorities. She
with compassion and empathy. The love for students
learned to value other people‘s effort and appreciate
flows naturally and the desire to see touched lives
every little act. She learned to share and transfer
and changed serve as her inspiration to pursue
knowledge without expecting something in return,
excellence in all her endeavors.
and develop an intelligent heart with core values of excellence, innovation, integrity, respect, service,
Martin (2012) emphasized the importance of
teamwork, continuous improvement, having fun.
service and supported the idea of the respondent no.
Another guiding line from Mahatma Gandhi that she
3. For him, service is a defining and fulfilling
believes on is that ―The best way to find yourself is
enterprise which can help us to see that we are not
to lose yourself in the service of others‖.
delineated by an identity, but defined by ability,
Page 26
Modern Philosophy: Its Influence on Selected School administrators compassion, connection and love.
This view was supported by Cuoros (2011) that as an administrator, building relationships,
Moreover, the respondent no. 4 shared her
developing leadership, and focusing on school as the
thoughts that philosophy has influenced her for so
―hub‖ of our community is very important. We have
many years for she has been practicing on how to
the opportunity to become better by continuously
relate herself well to the faculty members under her
being able to visit classrooms and see what the most
department by listening and attending to some of
effective teachers do. Peers do not have this same
their concerns. She is quite disappointed because they
opportunity
are not so well taken care of by the institution. But
environment.
despite of some negligence on the part of the school,
technologies such as blogging and Twitter, we open
the faculty members are still doing their duties and
up our classrooms to other educators not only in our
obligation to the students and the community.
own schools, but to schools around the world to bring
because Through
of the
our use
physical of
different
them in on this collaboration. As we always focus on Her answer is supported by Ross (2012) who
―what is best for kids‖, it is crucial that we look to
reiterated that philosophy helps people to become
not only help our own students, but how we can help
better able to look at things from a variety of
other students from around the globe as well. As we
perspectives, to understand different viewpoints, and
tell our students when they walk into our schools, we
to discover common ground among them. According
must ensure that we create a culture of sharing within
to him, philosophy also helps people to learn how to
our own community to learn from others around the
critically examine their own views as well as those of
world, as well as within our own community. The
others.
most innovative environments outside of school tap
By following the school‘s principles, activities,
into the ―wisdom of the room‖ and bring in different
programs, and policies is what the respondent no. 5
voices to continuously learn and grow; schools must
doing.
do the same.
For her,
building relationships
among
subordinates is very important. However, respondent no. 6 believed that Page 27
Modern Philosophy: Its Influence on Selected School administrators philosophy has a great impact to her as an
Open communication between students, teachers,
administrator. This principle guides her in her day to
administrators, parents, and the community creates
day work as an administrator. She understands and
an environment of shared understanding and
practiced that her work as an administrator is a life
responsibility in the development of the ―Educated
of service to the learners, to teachers, other school
Person.‖ It assures that all voices are heard and
personnel, parents and alumni. As an administrator,
valued
it is her command responsibility to set the direction
assessment
for the school‘s future and encourage the members
educational practices.
toward
development,
and
improvement
implementation, of
effective
of the school community to achieve the desired goals.
Learning requires a safe and welcoming environment. Structure and assertive discipline are
Ross (2010) enumerated the responsibilities of an
the foundation for a positive learning environment.
administrator should consider. For him, all children
School discipline must be fair, consistent, and firm.
can
safe,
Students must understand their role in school and the
welcoming, and conducive to acquiring knowledge.
academic and behavioral expectations placed upon
Creating this positive learning environment requires
them.
educators to utilize effective communication, strong
clearly understand expectations and accountability,
classroom
management,
parental
they become more actively engaged in their own
academic
rigor,
expectations
learn
when
their
high
environment
is
involvement, for
I believe that when students and parents
all,
learning. Meaningful active engagement in learning
collaboration and collegiality, acceptance of change,
must lead educators and students to frequently
and accountability.
celebrate achievement.
Communication is essential to creating an
Strong
relationships
between
schools,
environment where students can learn. Open two-
families, and the community are essential to the
way communication must be established and valued
academic success of all students. Education is a
by all members of the educational community.
shared responsibility between schools, families, and
Page 28
Modern Philosophy: Its Influence on Selected School administrators the community, with the best results coming when all
holding students accountable for hard work and the
three work together. In fact, I believe the three most
expectation to continuously improve their learning,
critical dynamics of school improvement are teaching
will result in a meaningful and lasting educational
and learning, school climate, and family involvement.
experience for all.
Research tells us that the greatest indicator of student success is the level of family involvement in
All students can learn at higher levels when
education. This comes at a time when more children
expected.
than ever before in United States history have
articulated and modeled from the principal, teachers,
working mothers and fathers.
Therefore, schools
parents and support staff. A school climate that is
must take the initiative in developing and sustaining
collaborative and focused on results will ensure that
effective partnerships.
all students learn. Educators need to be committed to
A well-planned visionary
partnership is necessary for all students to succeed.
frequent
This position must be consistently
and
ongoing
assessment
of
student
performance that focuses on student learning. Academic rigor is at the heart of improved
Assessment methods should be varied and aligned to
student learning. Educators must identify essential
instructional practices applied in the classroom.
learning, set clear goals and objectives, create
Teachers need to work collaboratively to analyze
performance-based
assessment results
assessments
to
accurately
and develop
strategies
for
measure student learning, and then develop lessons
improvement based on the assessment data. When
that foster student engagement toward achieving
instruction is based on assessment, teachers and
learning targets. High standards for learning must be
students will have a clear image of what students
expected
need to know, understand, and be able to do at the
and
communicated
to
all
students.
Educators need to embrace the idea that the concepts
end of each unit of instruction.
and skills we deem essential require adequate instructional hours for students to successfully reach the expected learning.
Teaching and learning in isolation will result
Teachers, administrators,
in failure. An effective learning community utilizes
parents, and the community must share the belief that
collaborative efforts between all stakeholders to
Page 29
Modern Philosophy: Its Influence on Selected School administrators improve teacher and student learning.
A learning
teachers, staff, parents, and the community must
community begins with the development of shared
share
the
problem
and
solution
with
the
knowledge and vision. Educators must have a vision
understanding that they are accountable to its
for learning outcomes and must share that vision with
success.
students, colleagues, parents, and the community.
vision for change.
They must be committed to the shared
This involves communication, research, goal setting, and ongoing professional development with a clear focus on student learning.
The education of our students requires educators
By working together,
to synthesize many components. When we unify our
students are exposed to diverse perspectives and all
efforts around a strong vision, sound educational
participants can achieve a greater job satisfaction and
practices, professionalism, and an environment of
sense of accomplishment.
collaboration
and
collegiality,
we
create
an
environment for meaningful learning. This positive Change
in
education
must
be
systemic,
sustainable, and effective as measured by increased
learning environment embraces the concept that schools are for students and achievement.
learning for all students and adults. I believe that for sustainable, effective change to become imbedded in
For respondent no. 7, strategic planning
our practice, school leaders must develop a vision
supports the school, its philosophy and fulfill its
that values and utilizes shared leadership. We need
mission and achieve its vision while for respondent
to involve all teachers, administrators, parents, and
no. 8, philosophy keeps on acquiring for excellence
the community in the change process. Finding new
and quality in all ways and in many ways.
solutions to new problems requires a shared sense of urgency, a common vision, and a deeper level of
Norwich
(2012)
says
―The
effective
active engagement. Teachers need to feel valued as
implementation of the strategic plan is the true
part of the solution to the problem, more than merely
determining factor as to whether or not a company is
an agent of change for acceptance to occur. If our
effective.‖
goal is to improve student achievement, then Page 30
Modern Philosophy: Its Influence on Selected School administrators A Visionary
According to him, the best way to predict the future is to create it. Strategic Planning is a process
An administrator‘s first responsibility is to
that determines the future of the organization and
develop a vision for the unit for which one is
what organizational resources will be needed to
responsible, a vision that is consistent with the
ensure that success. The process helps determine
missions of the larger organization and context
business opportunities and resources that are
within
required to convert opportunity into success.
responsibility is to share that vision with others,
which
the
unit
resides.
A
second
working to achieve the kind of wide acceptance that Business owners and leaders today have found that developing a strategy and an implementation
will allow the unit to function efficiently and consistently across constituencies.
plan is far more effective than leaving the future to chance. Furthermore, developing a strategy, a vision,
A Collaborator
a mission, and specific plan of action contributes to
Within the broader context of the university, each
long-term, sustainable success. If implemented
unit exists within a complex web of other units,
correctly, it will create higher levels of motivation,
serving a wide variety of constituencies that includes
commitment, and fuel continuously higher levels of
students, parents, faculty, staff, administration,
achievement from everyone within the organization.
taxpayers, legislators, and more. In addition, each unit is home to a diverse population of students,
Lastly, the respondent no. 9 emphasized that
faculty, staff, and administrators. In order to be
philosophy is the founding principle, the guide to
successful, an administrator must be willing and able
thoughts, words and actions, the way of life, and the
to work collaboratively both within the unit and
pursued end.
beyond it. Administration is not a task to be
Lamonica (2010) gave the following philosophies as
founding
administrator:
principles
and
guides
to
an
undertaken in a vacuum, nor can it be approached independently. Administrators must be willing and able to work well with others or they simply will not survive.
Page 31
Modern Philosophy: Its Influence on Selected School administrators A Role Model and Mentor Just as teachers of writing should be writers and
An Advocate While it is important that administrators be
teachers
of
history
should
be
historians,
prepared engage in a wide variety of collaborative
administrators of instructional programs should be
undertakings, it is also important that they be
engaged in instruction. Their classrooms and other
prepared to function as advocates for their units.
instructional sites should model best practice, not
Being an advocate involves not only protecting the
only for the benefit of their students but also for the
interests of the unit, but also promoting the unit, its
benefit of less experienced instructors. In addition,
principles, and its practices at every opportunity. In
administrators must be willing and able to mentor
order to succeed, the administrator must be willing to
future administrators, serving as role models for the
be a lively mix of table-thumper, cheerleader, and
students and colleagues who will one day follow in
public relations specialist.
their footsteps.
A Facilitator
An Innovator
Some administrators see themselves as sentries,
No matter how strong an existing unit may be, it
restricting
access
to
opportunity;
others
see
is never sufficient for an administrator simply to
themselves as innkeepers, welcoming opportunity
maintain the status quo. Administrators must be
when it knocks. I feel it is important to be the latter,
willing to push for innovation and change, not
making every effort to remain accessible and open to
merely for the sake of change, but for the sake of
new ideas, to encourage well considered initiatives,
developing strong, vital programs. Staying abreast of
to make things happen, and to help things happen.
the latest developments in the field, keeping a
While a firm ―no‖ must always remain an option, a
watchful eye on the unit as a whole, and looking for
carefully considered ―yes‖ is generally more
opportunities to move forward, even when moving
productive and should, perhaps, be the default
forward means taking a calculated risk . . . each of
response to reasonable requests.
these
is
a
administration.
Page 32
vital
component
of
successful
Modern Philosophy: Its Influence on Selected School administrators
Conclusion
A Researcher Every
administrator
a
Administrators lead a school that will embrace
researcher. Administering an academic unit requires
lifelong learning, promote the development of
the constant assessment and re-assessment of both
positive relationships among students, faculty, staff,
long-standing practices and new initiatives. Posing
and
questions,
writing
achievement, embrace diversity and respect for one
research protocols, interpreting data, and reporting
another, adaptability, open communication, and life
findings has to be standard administrative practice.
success. The philosophy of ones‘ administrator
On-going
than
mirrors school‘s values of lifelong learning,
reassurance; it also provides exigency and allows for
encouraging relationships, academic excellence,
intentionality in relation to growth and development.
personal and professional growth, respect, diversity,
designing
assessment
is,
by
definition,
methodologies,
provides
more
co
-
administrators,
foster
academic
collaboration, open communication, organization, A Scholar
creativity,
The daily demands of administration are such
responsibility. Philosophy guides the administrator
that it is easy to get caught up in logistics and the
of a school to make sure that participatory leadership
minutiae of day-to-day operations. In order to be a
style
truly effective administrator, however, one must set
collaboration is existing. Through philosophy, an
aside time for scholarship. It might be easy to view
administrator believes that embracing the people as
reading, writing, publishing, and presenting as
at the heart of the organization is very important.
luxuries, but they are not; they are the lifeblood of
Most of the administrators being interviewed believe
the administrative role. A scholarly approach to
in creating an inspiring vision and a mission
administration is the foundation upon which solid
statement that exhibits the values of the university.
programs are built and maintained, and playing an
For them, vision should be empowering and excite
active role.
members to do great things and there should be a
where
work
ethic,
mutual
community,
decision
making
and
and
moral leader who is kind, respectful, and genuine to Page 33
Modern Philosophy: Its Influence on Selected School administrators their service. It is important that in their visions,
interactions between people and an organization,
they describe where their school is now, where they
which, in turn, helps shape the school climate and
see it in the future, and how they are going to get
culture. A school‘s culture and climate affects the
there. They want the vision to be a mutual, shared
individuals that make it up. The organization as a
vision among every school community member.
whole is also affected by the interactions of its
The mission statement will be revised and thoughts
members. They believe in creating an environment
and ideas from the school community will be
where faculty and staff are motivated through
included in the new mission statement. They
rewards/recognition, challenges, and personal and
believe that schools that are informed, energetic,
professional growth. It is important to have a
and thoughtful are successful schools with an idea
positive school climate and culture through
that administrators should have philosophy to
incorporating positive personnel relations, building
believe on. Schools need to have a positive climate
motivation and morale, and having respect and
and a supportive culture. Respect and open
appreciation for every member of the school
communication is key to this. They believe it is
community. Trust, respect, and confidence in their
important for administrators, staff, faculty, and
fellow school community members, encouraging
students to be on the same page and for policies to
open
be developed with everyone‘s input.
collaboration in decision-making is crucial for a
communication,
and
emphasizing
positive leadership position. The best way for an Through philosophy, administrators believed
organization or a person within that organization to
that the energy of the school is what builds morale
accomplish a task is through collaboration, open
and school spirit that is so important in improving
communication, and a well-organized structure.
the climate of the school. Having respect for each
As an administrator, they are committed to
other, diversity, open communication, and holding
lifelong
academic excellence in the highest regard are
academic excellence, personal and professional
important elements in leading a school. They
growth, respect, diversity, collaboration, open
believed that behavior is a function of the
communication, organization, creativity, work
Page 34
learning,
encouraging
relationships,
Modern Philosophy: Its Influence on Selected School administrators ethic,
moral
leadership,
community,
and
success of the school. They will not be a perfect
responsibility. At the heart of the school community
leader, they will make mistakes, but they will stay
is the people who make up the organization, the
true to their values and what philosophy they have
individuals are the most important pieces to the
is best for the school.
Table 1 - Profile of the Respondents Respondent No.
Age
Gender
1
60
Female
2
68
Female
3
54
Female
4
52
Female
5
60
Female
6
64
Female
7
62
Female
8
39
Male
9
62
Female
Educational Attainment Doctor of Educational Management – 21 units earned Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Management Doctor of Educational Management MAEd Major in Educational Management and Supervision Doctor of Educational Management Doctor of Philosophy in Curriculum Doctor of Philosophy in Education Doctor of Philosophy in Education Doctor of Philosophy in Education
Page 35
Administrative Position
Years of Service as an Administrator
Principal
7 years
Administrator
20 years
Administrator
8 years
Department Chairman, General Education
12 years
Dean
10 years
Directress Academic Affairs
42 years
Dean
12 years
Director
4 years
Dean, Undergraduate and Graduate School
4 -1/2 years
Modern Philosophy: Its Influence on Selected School administrators Retrieved February 13, 2017
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