Exploring the experiences of administrative interns: Implications for university preparation programs

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify how current administrative interns enrolled in a university administrator preparation program describe and make meaning of their internship experiences.

Design/methodology/approach

For this qualitative study, the researchers interviewed administrative interns enrolled in one university preparation program throughout their internship regarding the experiences.

Findings

The findings from this study contribute and add value to research in the area of administrator preparation by highlighting the experiences of administrative interns as well as the implications of how interns make meaning of those experiences using a developmental concerns framework. Key factors influencing those perceptions cited by interns as a result of their internship experiences include the interns’ readiness to take on leadership positions, their change in perception of administration, perceptions of journal reflections as an internship component, supporting teachers, receiving feedback from others, and the level of support provided by their internship supervisor.

Originality/value

The findings from this study contribute to research in the area of administrator preparation at the university level, specifically pertaining to the structure of the internship, how university preparation programs can respond to interns’ concerns, and the design and emphasis of practicum experiences within those degree or certificate programs.

Citation

Jamison, K. and Clayton, J. (2016), "Exploring the experiences of administrative interns: Implications for university preparation programs", Journal of Educational Administration, Vol. 54 No. 5, pp. 514-536. https://doi.org/10.1108/JEA-02-2015-0020