ELO 2: Execute assignments in Educational Management 1

Question

Question 2:

4. Observe the theory and management practices of the school you visit and conclude whether the management style is more autocratic or participatory. (5)

5. Consult with HODs and compile their responsibilities. (5)

6. Identify how the school generates funds apart from the school fees. (5)

7. Consult with the HOD and list the items that appear on the school budget. (8)

8. Interview 3 teachers and explain five reasons why managers/leaders fail. (5)

9. Ask a HOD to explain the year planner’s particular items and dates. (2)

10. Based on your observation, discuss the 5 key functions of the school board. (10)

Answer 1

4. Management Style Observation

To determine whether the management style at the school is more autocratic or participatory, observe the following aspects during your visit:

• Decision-Making Process: Note how decisions are made—are they dictated by the principal (autocratic), or is there a collaborative approach that involves input from staff (participatory)?
• Communication Channels: Is communication top-down, with little room for feedback, or is it open and encourages dialogue among staff?
• Involvement in Planning: Examine if teachers and staff are included in school planning and policy development, indicative of participative leadership.
• Conflict Resolution: Observe how conflicts and grievances are handled—are they resolved through imposed authority (autocratic) or through discussion and consensus-making (participatory)?
• Staff Morale and Culture: Assess the climate within the school environment—higher morale and collaboration may indicate a participatory style, while low morale may suggest an autocratic environment.

Based on these observations, conclude whether the management style leans more towards autocracy or participation.

5. Responsibilities of HODs

After consulting with Heads of Departments (HODs), compile the following responsibilities typically attributed to them:

1. Curriculum development and implementation
2. Monitoring and assessing student performance
3. Staff management and development within the department
4. Resource allocation for departmental needs
5. Liaison with other departments and administration
6. Planning and conducting departmental meetings
7. Reporting on departmental progress and challenges
8. Supporting the professional development of teachers

6. Generating Funds

Apart from school fees, the school may generate funds through various means such as:

1. Fundraising events (e.g., fairs, auctions, sports events)
2. Donations from parents or local businesses
3. Grants from government or educational foundations
4. Rental income from school facilities to the community
5. Sponsored programs or partnerships with local organizations

7. Items on the School Budget

Consulting with the HOD may reveal the following items commonly found in the school budget:

1. Staff salaries and benefits
2. Instructional materials and resources (textbooks, technology)
3. Maintenance and operation of school facilities
4. Extracurricular activities and sports programs
5. Professional development and training for staff
6. Utilities (electricity, water, internet)
7. Administrative expenses (office supplies, salaries)
8. Special projects or initiatives (community service, educational trips)

8. Reasons Why Managers/Leaders Fail

Interviewing three teachers may reveal insights into why managers or leaders fail, such as:

1. Lack of Communication: Failing to effectively communicate expectations or changes leads to confusion and misalignment.
2. Inability to Delegate: Managers who micromanage instead of delegating tasks hinder team growth and productivity.
3. Resistance to Change: Inflexibility in adapting to new ideas or technologies can lead to stagnation.
4. Neglecting Employee Morale: Disregarding staff needs or feedback diminishes motivation and increases turnover.
5. Poor Conflict Resolution Skills: Inability to manage conflicts constructively can create a toxic work environment.

9. Year Planner Items and Dates

Ask an HOD to explain specific items in the year planner, which may include:

1. Term dates: Start and end dates for each term or semester.
2. Major school events: Such as open days, sports days, and parent-teacher meetings.
3. Assessment periods: Dates for testing and report submissions.
4. Professional development days: Scheduled workshops or training sessions for staff.
5. Holidays: School breaks between terms or school year.

10. Key Functions of the School Board

Based on observations, here are five key functions of the school board:

1. Setting the Vision and Mission: Establishing the strategic direction and goals of the school.
2. Financial Oversight: Approving budgets, ensuring financial stability, and overseeing expenditures.
3. Policy Development: Creating and enforcing policies that govern school operations and educational standards.
4. Community Engagement: Building relationships with parents and the community to support school initiatives.
5. Evaluation and Accountability: Monitoring school performance and holding school leadership accountable for achieving educational outcomes.

These functions help ensure that the school operates effectively and aligns with its educational objectives.