Aspiring educational leaders and the internship: voices from the field

Abstract

This study examined the experiences of administrative interns at the completion of their experience, using a phenomenological framework, document analysis, semi-structured interviews and a survey. Findings indicate a disparity between theory espoused in programmes and actual practice of sitting administrators, ideological dissonance between traditional theories of leadership and the more contemporary theories taught in preparation programmes, a level of frustration regarding inconsistent implementation across school districts and time pressures to complete hours.

Notes

aIEP is individualized education plan developed for students with disabilities. The meeting is held to both assess initial eligibility and ongoing progress and must be supervised by a licensed administrator.

bPTA/PTO are parent–teacher associations or organizations designed to provide a forum for communication and collaboration among parents, teachers and administrators.