Master of Arts [M.A] [Educational Leadership] From Western Michigan University

The performance driven leadership model provides students with the opportunity to merge cutting-edge theory into pertinent practices; an approach that represents a blending of an experiential program with theory-based instruction. Performance-driven leadership addresses many of the problems that have plagued traditional educational leadership programs.The overall program is focused on preparing leaders ready to serve within the accountability era facing educational institutions today. Course objectives are based on input from superintendents, principals, master's graduates, current students, NCATE and other exemplary programs around the country. Key foci include transformational and balanced leadership, systems thinking, change, and data-driven decision-making. The goal is to create effective leaders knowing not only what to do, but also knowing when, how, and why to do it.Students demonstrate their competency by writing reflective essays, creating models, conducting administrative tasks through simulation activities and completing projects for each content area of the curriculum.