Leadership in Professional Development and Handling Dismissals: Key Reflections from Case Studies

Answer the following questions and reply to two classmates similar to Module 1 cases.
Case Reflection # 9 – “Review of the link” – page 111
1. Does professional development in the school focus on individual learning or group learning?
2. Is professional development in the school a short-term or a long-term effort to target specific improvement? What are the clues?
3. Does the goal of professional development in the school strive for excellence and realized full potential or adequacy and minimum standards?
Case Reflection # 10 – ” The Made Coach” – page 121
1. How does this letter impact the dismissal process?
2. What are some implications for leadership presented in this case?
3. What will you do in response to this situation?

Struggling with where to start this assignment? Follow this guide to tackle your assignment easily!


Guide to Answering the Reflection Questions for Professional Development and “The Made Coach” Case


Part 1: Professional Development in the School

Answer these questions by analyzing the general approach to professional development (PD) at your school. Use evidence from the case or context you are given to support your responses.

  1. Does professional development in the school focus on individual learning or group learning?
    • Individual Learning: This type of PD focuses on the growth and development of each teacher’s specific needs. You might see opportunities for one-on-one coaching, personalized workshops, or self-paced learning activities.
    • Group Learning: Group PD emphasizes collaborative learning among staff. This could involve team-based professional learning communities (PLCs), workshops, or whole-school initiatives.
    • Answer: Determine whether PD in the school is focused more on individual or group learning, and back it up with specific examples from the school or case.
  2. Is professional development in the school a short-term or a long-term effort to target specific improvement? What are the clues?
    • Short-Term: Short-term PD efforts might involve quick, one-time workshops or training sessions aimed at immediate issues.
    • Long-Term: Long-term PD efforts are ongoing and usually aim for sustained growth, with multiple sessions or professional development plans over the year(s).
    • Clues: Look for indicators like the frequency of PD, its integration into the school year, or whether there are follow-up sessions and long-term goals tied to the PD efforts.
    • Answer: Based on the clues, decide if PD is more short-term or long-term. For example, if PD is embedded in school improvement plans, it is likely a long-term effort.
  3. Does the goal of professional development in the school strive for excellence and realized full potential or adequacy and minimum standards?
    • Excellence and Full Potential: PD aiming for excellence would include cutting-edge teaching strategies, professional growth that challenges teachers, and higher expectations for performance.
    • Adequacy and Minimum Standards: If the PD focuses mainly on meeting basic requirements or compliance, it’s likely aimed at meeting minimum standards.
    • Answer: Evaluate whether the PD in your school pushes for excellence or settles for adequacy. Look for signs such as rigorous training and assessments for teacher growth versus compliance-based PD activities.

Part 2: “The Made Coach” Case Reflection

Answer these questions based on the case study you read, which involves a coaching dismissal scenario.

  1. How does this letter impact the dismissal process?
    • Impact of the Letter: If the letter was written by an administrator or higher-up in the school, it could influence the formal dismissal process. Depending on its content, the letter might serve as a notice of performance issues, or as a supportive letter that outlines why the dismissal is necessary.
    • Answer: Analyze how the letter may contribute to the decision-making process for the coach’s dismissal. Consider its tone, message, and any actions or recommendations it proposes for addressing the situation.
  2. What are some implications for leadership presented in this case?
    • Implications for Leadership: The case may raise questions about leadership decisions, such as how to handle difficult personnel issues, the need for transparency and clear communication, and how to balance fairness with accountability.
    • Answer: Discuss how the leadership in this case should approach similar situations in the future. Consider the lessons learned and how leadership can take a more proactive or supportive role in such decisions.
  3. What will you do in response to this situation?
    • Response to the Situation: Based on the case details, think about the ethical considerations and practical steps you would take as a leader. You might consider initiating a performance review, providing additional support to the coach, or handling the situation through proper disciplinary channels.
    • Answer: Reflect on what steps you would take to address this situation. Would you seek feedback from others involved? How would you ensure fairness and support for the coach during this process?

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