Digital Version "The Most Efficient European Educational Leader of the Year, 2023"

Vol. 09 | Issue 02 | 2023 www.theknowledgereview.com

The Most

A Comparative Analysis Effective Leadership Styles in Education

Efficient

European

EDUCATIONAL

Leader

Dr. Oksana Gerwe | Associate Head | Brunel Business School

of the Year,

2023

Dr.

Gerwe

Pioneering Excellence in Business Education

Valuing the of Change

Architect Education in the

Realm of

E E

ducation stands as a pillar of progress, shaping the future of societies and nations. At its helm are exceptional leaders whose dedication and innovative vision drive the transformation of educational landscapes.

The landscape of education in Europe is undergoing a profound transformation, driven by rapid technological advancements, evolving societal needs, and a growing emphasis on global competitiveness. Educational systems across the continent are recognizing the necessity to adapt and innovate to prepare students for the complex demands of the 21st century.

The role of these educational leaders is pivotal in fostering these changes.

These leaders serve as architects of change in the realm of education. They exemplify visionary leadership, steering institutions towards academic and holistic excellence. Their strategies promote inclusivity, diversity, and access to quality education for all, fostering an environment that nurtures

creativity, critical thinking, and social responsibility.

culture of entrepreneurship and practical relevance in education.

Beyond the classrooms, these leaders champion cutting-edge research, technological integration, and global partnerships, ensuring that education remains relevant and responsive to the demands of the contemporary world.

They pave the way for a brighter future, empowering generations with the knowledge, skills, and values needed to navigate an ever-evolving global landscape.

We believe her visionary leadership will continue reshaping education and propel us into an era of limitless possibilities.

In the latest edition, 'The Most Efficient European Educational Leader of the Year, 2023,' The Knowledge Review is thrilled to present Dr. Oksana Gerwe, a distinguished figure in the realm of education specializing in Strategic Management and Entrepreneurship.

Her journey from the corporate world to academia ignited her passion for teaching and knowledge-sharing.

Driven by a vision to bridge academia and industry, Dr. Oksana emphasizes a

Embark on an enlightening journey through this edition!

Gopal Ingole - Gopal Ingole

This certificate is presented to

Dr. Oksana Gerwe for being recognized by The Knowledge Review Magazine in an annual listing of

The Most Efficient European Educational Leader of the Year, 2023 for her outstanding dedication, leadership, and contributions to the field of education, which have had a profound and positive impact throughout Europe.

September

Mary d ‘souza Mary D'souza Editor-in-Chief

2023

06

C o n t e n t s

C O V E R S T O R Y

Dr.

Oksana

Gerwe

Pioneering Excellence in Business Education

A r t i c l e

20 A Comparative Analysis Effective Leadership Styles in Education

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“

“

I am a big proponent of interactive teaching style, always linking theory to practice, and also an expert in Strategic Management and Entrepreneurship.

The Most

Efficient European EDUCATIONAL LEADER of the Year,

2023

Dr. Oksana Gerwe Associate Head, Brunel Business School

The Most Efficient European Educational Leader of the Year, 2023

Oksana Gerwe

Dr.

Pioneering Excellence in Business Education

D

r. Oksana Gerwe, Associate Head at Brunel Business School, is a well-known figure in the world of education. Her expertise lies in Strategic Management and Entrepreneurship. Early in her career, she gained invaluable experience in real estate and fintech, which highlighted the importance of strategic thinking and an entrepreneurial mindset.

This experience spurred her to embark on an educational journey of her own.

Pursuing an Executive MBA at the prestigious IE Business School in Madrid, Dr. Oksana immersed herself in the world of business academia. It was here that her passion for teaching and knowledge-sharing was ignited.

Having found her calling in the business school, she pursued her doctoral studies in Strategy, solidifying her transition into academia. Dr. Oksana's academic journey took her across Europe and the United Kingdom, where she assumed senior leadership roles in entrepreneurship and innovation, leaving a lasting mark on both her students and colleagues.

In 2017, she made a significant move by joining the Brunel Business School at Brunel University London. For six years, she spearheaded the MBA Programme, molding the minds of future business leaders. Today, she stands as the Associate Head

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“

Academic excellence is my top priority as an educator.

(Education) Head of Brunel Business School (Education), responsible for the quality of teaching and learning, enhancing the student experience, and fostering curriculum innovation.

individuals about the secrets behind their achievements, they frequently mention a teacher or mentor who played a pivotal role in their growth.

What sets Dr. Oksana Gerwe apart is her unwavering commitment to bridging the gap between academia and industry. Her focus on cultivating a culture of entrepreneurship and realworld relevance within the academic environment is commendable. She ensures that Brunel Business School equips its students with the practical skills and knowledge needed to thrive in the ever-evolving global marketplace.

Having personally experienced the profound influence of educators on her own development, Dr. Gerwe aspired to create similar opportunities for students. Her driving force lies in empowering students with knowledge and innovation to help them shape their futures. She derives immense satisfaction from sharing her knowledge and experiences with her students, motivating them to aim high, pursue their goals, and summon the courage to chase their dreams.

Dr. Oksana Gerwe is not just an educator; she is a visionary leader who understands that the future of business education lies in its ability to adapt, innovate, and remain connected to the real world of practice. Her dedication to this cause and her tireless efforts to empower the next generation of business leaders make her a true inspiration in the field.

Dr. Gerwe's unique combination of strategic leadership experience, both within and outside academia, her extensive connections with the industry, and her diverse professional background collectively render her an exceptionally effective educator and academic leader. Her ultimate aim is to create opportunities for others, just as educators did for her.

Shaping Future Leaders through Passion, Dedication, and Innovation As the Associate Head of Brunel Business School in London, Dr. Gerwe feels a deep sense of honor in having the chance to impart her journey in entrepreneurship and innovation within higher education and the global industry. This journey represents a remarkable blend of passion, unwavering dedication, and an unrelenting pursuit of excellence.

Commitment to Contemporary Education Brunel University London is deeply rooted in the principles espoused by the renowned engineer of the UK's industrial era, Isambard Kingdom Brunel. These principles revolve around a strong emphasis on being highly practical, applied, and relevant in all aspects of research, teaching, and industry engagement.

These qualities are all driven by her overarching vision to mold future leaders and catalyze positive changes on a global scale. Dr. Gerwe's inspiration to become an educational leader springs from a profound belief in the transformative potential of education. When one asks successful

Dr. Gerwe is dedicated to instilling the most current developments and ideas into every classroom setting, spanning from undergraduate courses to MBA programs. Her goal is to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel and remain competitive in the job market upon graduation.

Additionally, Dr. Gerwe actively engages in research initiatives and collaborates with fellow educators and industry professionals. These efforts serve to fine-tune their educational strategies, resulting in the delivery of a cutting-edge education that readies students to navigate the challenges and seize the opportunities of the future.

Fostering Interactive Learning and Lifelong Education Dr. Gerwe strongly advocates for an interactive teaching style that consistently connects theoretical concepts with practical applications.

She recognizes that student engagement plays a pivotal role in the success of education.

To achieve this, she employs active learning strategies, implements flipped classroom models, and leverages technology-enhanced methods, all aimed at creating dynamic and interactive learning environments. By cultivating a culture of collaboration and emphasizing real-world relevance, Dr. Gerwe keeps students motivated to actively explore, question, and excel.

One illustrative approach used within the classrooms of Brunel Business School is the case method. This method allows students to tackle genuine business challenges, work collaboratively in groups, explore diverse perspectives, and critically evaluate the pros and cons of potential solutions.

Dr. Gerwe underscores the fact that the traditional model of acquiring a single degree in one's twenties and relying on that knowledge throughout one's career is no longer applicable. Instead, she encourages her students to embrace the concept of lifelong learning. In an ever-changing and evolving world, the necessity to continually upskill and update one's knowledge is paramount.

This perspective ensures that individuals remain adaptable and wellprepared to navigate the evolving landscape of their chosen fields.

Nurturing Career Success Enhancing student employability stands as a central pillar in Dr. Gerwe's current role as the Associate Head and her prior position as the MBA Director.

Within Brunel Business School, a range of career-focused initiatives has been meticulously crafted to empower students in bridging the divide between academic knowledge and professional success. These initiatives include mentorship programs, industry placements, and skill development workshops. They collectively serve to equip students with the necessary tools to thrive in their chosen careers.

Brunel University London's commitment to student employability is underscored by its notable standing in the UK's higher education landscape. For instance, in the Global University Employability Ranking of 2022, Brunel achieved the remarkable position of being the 14th-best university in the UK for producing highly employable graduates. This achievement reflects the institution's dedication to nurturing a comprehensive skill set that encompasses soft skills, critical thinking abilities, and practical experience. As a result, Brunel consistently produces graduates who are exceptionally well-prepared to excel in a competitive job market.

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I believe in bringing the most up-to-date and current developments and ideas into every classroom, from the undergraduate level to the MBA, preparing the students to be successful and competitive on the job market once they graduate.

“

She places a high priority on staying abreast of the latest educational trends and actively participating in conferences, workshops, and global forums. This commitment ensures her continuous immersion in conversations revolving around emerging pedagogical approaches, technological advancements, and shifts within various industries.

Resilience and Renewal Dr. Gerwe reflects on the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, acknowledging that it was a significant test for everyone. However, she proudly highlights the remarkable resilience and adaptability demonstrated by Brunel Business School during this period. The institution successfully navigated the transition from fully face-to-face teaching to online delivery with a high degree of efficiency and effectiveness.

The institution places significant value on student input, fostering open channels of communication between students and educators. This inclusive approach ensures that students are active participants in shaping their educational experiences. Moreover, the school's dedication to holistic development guarantees that the academic journey is not only intellectually stimulating but also enriching in various dimensions of a student's life.

In fact, rather than merely weathering the storm, Brunel Business School emerged from the pandemic with a renewed sense of community. The experience led to the development of new teaching and engagement tools, which have proven invaluable in enriching the learning experience; this period of adaptation and growth positioned the school in a much stronger and more competitive position within both the UK and the global education market.

A Trailblazing Career in Digital Innovation and Academic Leadership Over the course of her career, Dr. Gerwe has amassed a remarkable array of achievements, accolades, and well-deserved recognitions.

Holistic Approach to Learning and Teaching Enhancing the quality of learning and teaching activities at Brunel Business School is approached comprehensively.

Educators at the institution emphasize a harmonious integration of traditional teaching methods and experiential learning opportunities. This approach is underpinned by the use of feedback loops and a commitment to continuous improvement processes.

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I am an established expert in the field of digital innovation, disruptive business models, and the sharing economy with an extensive high-quality portfolio of publications, conference presentations, keynote speeches, grants, and multiple awards.

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She has established herself as a preeminent expert in the fields of digital innovation, disruptive business models, and the sharing economy. Her contributions are reflected in a comprehensive and high-quality portfolio of publications, conference presentations, keynote speeches, grants, and numerous prestigious awards.

One notable achievement occurred in September 2020 when Dr. Gerwe had the honor of presenting her insights to the UK Parliament. Her presentation focused on the profound effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the sharing economy sector in the UK, as well as the prospects for its recovery.

Under her visionary leadership, the Brunel MBA program thrived even in the face of the challenges posed by the pandemic. It was transformed into one of the most successful flagship programs within the Brunel Business School's portfolio. Dr. Gerwe's strategic, recruitment and operational efforts bore fruit, resulting in a substantial increase in program applications, offers, and conversions.

Notably, her leadership achieved the highest student enrollment numbers, particularly among international students, in recent recruitment cycles, marking a significant milestone since the program's inception 20 years ago.

Currently, Brunel University and the Business School are undergoing an exciting phase of strategic transformation. This transformation is geared towards ensuring the institution's resilience and adaptability in the higher education market, as well as elevating teaching, research, and knowledge exchange activities to new heights. This strategic evolution aligns with the ever-changing demands of the external environment, making it an exceptional time to both study and

work at Brunel University and be part of the institution's inspiring journey into the future.

Advice for Emerging Educational Leaders What distinguishes Dr. Gerwe as an educational leader is her holistic approach that seamlessly integrates the worlds of academia and industry.

Through her mentorship, she fosters curiosity, resilience, and empathy in students, preparing them to become adaptable leaders capable of driving meaningful change. Her educational methodologies place a strong emphasis on lifelong learning, ethics, and the cultivation of a global mindset.

To the students of the UK, Dr. Gerwe imparts valuable advice: Embrace curiosity as a constant companion on your journey. The world is in a perpetual state of change, and your ability to navigate it successfully hinges on your willingness to learn, unlearn, and relearn continuously.

Embrace challenges, nurture resilience, and recognize the immense value of networking and collaboration.

Understand that your education serves as a foundation, but it is your attitude and determination that will serve as the driving forces propelling your success.

In closing, Dr. Gerwe's path in educational leadership has been marked by inspiration and transformation. Guided by an unwavering passion for innovation, a steadfast commitment to student success, and a dedication to pushing the boundaries of education, she continues to shape the future of learning in Europe. With boundless enthusiasm, she eagerly anticipates the opportunities that lie ahead as she collaboratively paves the way for a brighter and more empowered generation of learners and leaders.

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Leadership Effective

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A Comparative Analysis

E

ducation is not a privilege; it is a necessity. Every individual has the inherent right to pursue education. In the educational sector, effective leadership is integral in shaping the learning environment, driving institutional progress, and, ultimately, influencing student outcomes. Education leaders are tasked with navigating complex challenges, fostering a positive school culture, and ensuring the delivery of quality education. To achieve these goals, leaders often adopt different leadership styles.

Transformational Leadership Transformational leadership is characterized by leaders who inspire and motivate their teams by setting a compelling vision and encouraging innovation and creativity. In education, transformational leaders focus on continuous improvement, envisioning a

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better future for their schools, and empowering teachers and students to excel.

There are strengths: it fosters collaboration and constant learning, encourages creativity and innovation in teaching, and inspires a shared vision that motivates the entire school community. But on the other hand, it has weaknesses. Implementing it effectively may require significant time and effort, is unsuitable for all situations, and can be overwhelming in highly structured environments. Well, success often hinges on the leader's charisma and communication skills.

Transactional Leadership Transactional leadership is characterized by a clear structure where leaders establish performance expectations, rewards, and consequences.

Sept 2023 | 21

Transactional leaders rely on established rules and systems to maintain order and discipline in education. This comes with its own set of benefits and challenges; it provides clear expectations and guidelines for teachers and students, and it can be effective in maintaining discipline and order in the school.

Moreover, it is well-suited for situations where consistency and structure are critical. However, it may stifle creativity and innovation or lead to a focus on compliance rather than intrinsic motivation. It is well-received in schools that prioritize autonomy and creativity.

Servant Leadership Servant leadership places the leader's primary focus on serving the needs of their team members. In education, servant leaders prioritize the wellbeing and development of teachers and students, aiming to create a supportive and nurturing environment. It fosters a sense of community and support among teachers and students.

It emphasizes empathy, listening, and understanding. It also encourages personal and professional growth. It may be perceived as too passive in situations requiring strong decisionmaking, but its effectiveness depends on the leader's ability to balance serving others with making tough choices. Adequate emotional intelligence is preferred.

Democratic Leadership Democratic leadership involves collaboration and decision-making through group consensus. In education, democratic leaders involve teachers, students, and stakeholders in the decision-making process, promoting

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shared ownership of the school's direction. It encourages participation, engagement, and buy-in from all stakeholders. It also establishes a sense of right and responsibility. It taps into the collective wisdom of the school community.

However, decision-making can be time-consuming, and one may struggle to reach a consensus in situations with conflicting interests, which is not ideal for situations requiring swift or decisive action.

Laissez-Faire Leadership Laissez-faire leadership involves minimal interference or direction from the leader, allowing team members to make decisions and manage their tasks independently. In education, this style can promote autonomy and creativity among teachers.

Its strengths lie in empowering teachers and students to take ownership of their work, potentially leading to innovative teaching methods and self-directed learning. However, it may result in inconsistency and lack of accountability, requiring highly motivated and self-directed team members.

Authoritative Leadership Authoritative leadership, often referred to as visionary leadership, involves leaders who set a clear vision and direction for the school and inspire others to follow. In education, authoritative leaders provide a strong sense of purpose and direction, offering stability and inspiration in times of change. Their strengths lie in providing a clear and motivating vision for the school and rallying the community around shared goals.

However, this style may involve less input from teachers and stakeholders and can be perceived as top-down or autocratic, making the leader's ability to articulate a compelling vision crucial for success.

Conclusion Effective leadership in education is far from a one-size-fits-all proposition.

The educational landscape is a dynamic and multifaceted realm where leaders face diverse challenges daily.

To navigate this complexity, leaders must possess a versatile toolkit of leadership styles, each tailored to address specific needs and circumstances.

Transformational leadership, with its focus on inspiring innovation and collaboration. In contrast, transactional leadership provides structure and discipline, ensuring the maintenance of order and the fulfillment of established expectations.

Servant leadership prioritizes the wellbeing and growth of teachers and students, fostering a nurturing and supportive environment. On the other hand, democratic leadership invites participation and shared ownership, promoting engagement and responsibility among stakeholders.

Ultimately, the most effective leaders in education are those who prioritize the best interests of their students and teachers. They create and nurture a positive and enriching learning environment while continuously striving for improvement. In this everevolving landscape, adaptability and a commitment to serving the educational community are the hallmarks of truly exceptional leadership.

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