Chapter 2 Investigating Preparation for the Principalship: Deliberating on Possibilities

Abstract

This chapter examines the intricacies of researching the initial preparation of school principals. First, the case is made for the importance of researching this formative stage in a principal's career trajectory. Second, an alignment is described between theory, research, and practice for informing fruitful approaches to preparation for the principalship. Third, a framework is articulated comprising four focal points portraying the complexities of principals' work. It is suggested that this framework could be used as a heuristic tool for connecting with the realities of the principal's world and the professional knowledge, skills, and dispositions that are required to perform the role effectively.

Citation

Clarke, S. and Wildy, H. (2013), "Chapter 2 Investigating Preparation for the Principalship: Deliberating on Possibilities", Slater, C.L. and Nelson, S.W. (Ed.) Understanding the Principalship: An International Guide to Principal Preparation (Advances in Educational Administration, Vol. 19), Emerald Group Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 25-44. https://doi.org/10.1108/S1479-3660(2013)0000019006