In an effort to compare five models used in delivering inservice instruction to administrators, a survey questionnaire was developed. The goals were to identify the principals' evaluations and perceptions of these models, to summarize the findings of the study, and to present the implications concerning the design of inservice education and the…

Although school administrators hold a key position in educational improvement, strategies designed to help in the development of their knowledge and skills have not been fully examined. A review of research on administrator inservice offers a research agenda that may be followed to expand the knowledge base on this issue. (DF)

Findings of a study that determined the benefits of mentoring as part of an administrator preparation program are discussed in this paper. In-depth interviews were conducted with nine practicing administrators, who worked directly with aspiring administrators who served as candidates in one cycle of the Danforth Foundation Program for the…

Findings of a study that examined the effect of participation in Danforth Foundation-sponsored principal training programs on participants' perceptions of leadership and administrative behaviors are presented in this paper. The field-based program aims to increase minority representation in educational leadership. Interviews, on-site observation,…

This paper reviews the methodology of recent research (1979-84) on staff development and inservice teacher education in the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada. A research agenda for the future is suggested. (Author/MT)

Mentoring has become an accepted and desirable part of the preservice preparation of educational administrators. This paper focuses on the responsibilities of those who are being mentored, often referred to as "mentees" or "proteges." It is argued that mentoring is a teaching-learning process to which participants bring…

In this paper critical skills needed by beginning principals are identified in order to guide mentors as they support and assist novice principals by indicating effective ways of dealing with critical responsibilities. A review of related literature and research-based information is presented followed by a description of the study. Findings were…

Study of the behavior of a suburban superintendent with a statewide reputation as an educational leader revealed five ways in which the superintendent proved effective. Includes a review of the literature, a description of the methodology, and a discussion of the study's implications for training and selection of superintendents. (PGD)

The Danforth Foundation Program for the Preparation of School Principals now being implemented at four American universities embodies two major emphases: (1) collaboration between universities and school systems and (2) experiential learning approaches. One important program aspect is mentoring relationships between candidates and experienced…

The benefits perceived by mentors themselves from serving as mentors in preservice preparation of educational administrators were studied for practicing school administrators assisting in the Danforth Foundation Program for the Preparation of School Principals. Mentors enjoyed participating and learning from program participants, as well as the…

Recent research has suggested that administrator preparation programs based exclusively on university courses are not very effective. Individuals progressing through innovative programs allowing greater opportunities for reflection and collaborative school/university activities should be better prepared to deal with the complex issues facing…

Since principals play an important role in fostering effective educational programs, they have a genuine need for increased professional development opportunities. Five models for administrator inservice education are described, including courses for academic credit, workshops and seminars (institutes) sponsored by professional associations or…

To address the problem of increasing professional isolation of building administrators, the Principals' Inservice Project helps establish principals' collegial support groups across the nation. The groups are typically composed of 6 to 10 principals who meet at least once each month over a 2-year period. One collegial support group of seven…

Findings of a study that examined the needs of beginning school principals are presented in this paper, with a focus on the differences in perceptions of aspiring and experienced principals. A questionnaire was mailed to 420 aspiring school principals in 5 universities in 3 states and to 100 practicing elementary, middle, and secondary principals…

Several problems and issues are typical of the beginning years of a principalship. A study of first- and second-year principals in a midwestern state classified these problems and issues into three broad areas: role clarification, limitations on technical expertise, and difficulties with socialization to the profession and to a particular school…