This document discusses applying postmodern thinking through six realms of meaning to improve education. It summarizes how each realm - symbolics, empirics, ethics, synoptics, esthetics, and synnoetics - can guide instructional leadership, organizational mission and culture, safety, student and community relations, and organizational improvement. The goal is to provide students with strong academic skills through effective, strategic planning using postmodern frameworks.
Working with the shadows: a misplaced attempt to control in education - Presentation exploring some initial thoughts on an alternative approach to education
Working with the shadows: a misplaced attempt to control in education - Presentation exploring some initial thoughts on an alternative approach to education
National FORUM of Applied Educational Research Journal 27(1&2) 2014, Sandra C...William Kritsonis
National FORUM of Applied Educational Research Journal 27(1&2) 2014, Sandra Cooley Nichols & Adriane N. Sheffield - NATIONAL FORUM JOURNALS ((Founded 1982), Dr. William Allan Kritsonis, Editor-in-Chief - www.nationalforum.com
NATIONAL FORUM JOURNALS
Founded 1982
NATIONAL FORUM JOURNALS are a group of national refereed, juried, peer-reviewed, blind-reviewed professional periodicals. Any article published shall earned five affirmative votes from members of our National Board of Invited Distinguished Jurors and must be recommended for national publication by members of the National Policy Board representing all National FORUM Journals. Journal issues are distributed both nationally and world-wide.
Our website features national refereed articles that are published daily within our National FORUM Journals Online Journal Division. Over 1,000 articles are available to scholars and practitioners world-wide. Over 250,000 guests visit our website yearly. About 56,000 articles are downloaded for academic purposes at no charge. We have about an 88% rejection rate. See: www.nationalforum.com
Founded in 1982, National FORUM Journals has published the scholarly contributions of over 5,200 professors with over 2,000 articles indexed. Our journals are indexed with many global agencies including Cabell’s Directories, ERIC, EBSCO, SWETS International, Library of Congress National Serials Data Program, and the Copyright Clearance Center, Danvers, Massachusetts.
Global Website: www.nationalforum.com
Studies have shown that adult learning occurs best when tasks are purposeful and can be immediately implemented, resulting in improved employee performance. Moreover, learner motivation is greater when existing personal experience and/or interest is an integral factor in course operation. Courses need to invite the learner to maximize understanding of course theories, concepts, and facts by recasting and relating his or her experience with those theories, concepts, and facts, culminating in the employment of new performance-enhancing skills. This presentation briefly outlines the best practices that are to be met to enhance and support Learning in the Workplace.
Bore, samuel k psycho educational groups in schools nfjca v2 n1 2013William Kritsonis
William Allan Kritsonis, Editor-in-Chief, NATIONAL FORUM JOURNALS (Founded 1982). Dr. LaVelle Henricks, Texas A&M University-Commerce and colleagues published in national refereed journal.
Dr. William Allan Kritsonis, Distinguished Alumnus, Central Washington University, College of Education and Professional Studies, Ellensburg, Washington; Invited Guest Lecturer, Oxford Round Table, University of Oxford, United Kingdom; Hall of Honor, Prairie View A&M University/Member of the Texas A&M University System.
Solomon, margaret training reflective educational practitionersWilliam Kritsonis
NATIONAL FORUM JOURNALS (Founded 1982 (www.nationalforum.com) is a group of national and international refereed journals. NFJ publishes articles on colleges, universities and schools; management, business and administration; academic scholarship, multicultural issues; schooling; special education; teaching and learning; counseling and addiction; alcohol and drugs; crime and criminology; disparities in health; risk behaviors; international issues; education; organizational theory and behavior; educational leadership and supervision; action and applied research; teacher education; race, gender, society; public school law; philosophy and history; psychology, sociology, and much more. Dr. William Allan Kritsonis, Editor-in-Chief.
Ethical Decision Making In Education: Utilizing the Ways of Knowing through t...William Kritsonis
Ethical Decision Making In Education: Utilizing the Ways of Knowing through the Realms of Meaning - a presentation by William Allan Kritsonis, PhD
Dr. Kritsonis lectures and conducts seminars and workshops on a variety of topics. He is author of more than 600 articles in professional journals and several books. His popular book SCHOOL DISCIPLINE: The Art of Survival is scheduled for its fourth edition. He is the author of the textbook William Kritsonis, PhD on Schooling that is used by many professors at colleges and universities throughout the nation and abroad.
In 2009, Dr. Kritsonis coauthored the textbook A Statistical Journey: Taming of the Skew. The book has been adopted by professors in many colleges and universities throughout the nation. It was published by the Alexis/Austin Group, Murrieta, California.
In 2008-2009, Dr. Kritsonis coauthored the book Effective Teaching in the Elementary School. First year teachers, as well as seasoned educators will find the chapters of this book packed with practical and workable solutions to typical classroom problems.
In 2007, Dr. Kritsonis’ version of the book of Ways of Knowing Through the Realms of Meaning (858 pages) was published in the United States of America in cooperation with partial financial support of Visiting Lecturers, Oxford Round Table (2005). The book is the product of a collaborative twenty-four year effort started in 1978 with the late Dr. Philip H. Phenix. Dr. Kritsonis was in continuous communication with Dr. Phenix until his death in 2002.
In 2007, Dr. Kritsonis was the lead author of the textbook Practical Applications of Educational Research and Basic Statistics. The text provides practical content knowledge in research for graduate students at the doctoral and master’s levels.
Dr. Kritsonis’ seminar and workshop on Writing for Professional Publication has been very popular with both professors and practitioners. Persons in attendance generate an article to be published in a refereed journal at the national or international levels.
Dr. Kritsonis has traveled and lectured throughout the United States and world-wide. Some recent international tours include Australia, New Zealand, Tasmania, Turkey, Italy, Greece, Monte Carlo, England, Holland, Denmark, Sweden, Finland, Russia, Estonia, Poland, Germany, and many more.
Dr. Fred C. Lunenburg - louder than words ijsaid v12 n1 2010William Kritsonis
Dr. Fred C. Lunenburg, www.nationalforum, NATIONAL FORUM JOURNALS, Houston, Texas, Dr. William Allan Kritsonis, Editor-in-Chief
National FORUM Journals, Founded in 1983, Over 5,000 professors published. All NATIONAL FORUM JOURNALS are refereed, juried, blind-reviewed professional journals intended for a national and world-wide audience. Over 56,000 articles are downloaded each year for academic purposes.
National FORUM of Applied Educational Research Journal 27(1&2) 2014, Sandra C...William Kritsonis
National FORUM of Applied Educational Research Journal 27(1&2) 2014, Sandra Cooley Nichols & Adriane N. Sheffield - NATIONAL FORUM JOURNALS ((Founded 1982), Dr. William Allan Kritsonis, Editor-in-Chief - www.nationalforum.com
NATIONAL FORUM JOURNALS
Founded 1982
NATIONAL FORUM JOURNALS are a group of national refereed, juried, peer-reviewed, blind-reviewed professional periodicals. Any article published shall earned five affirmative votes from members of our National Board of Invited Distinguished Jurors and must be recommended for national publication by members of the National Policy Board representing all National FORUM Journals. Journal issues are distributed both nationally and world-wide.
Our website features national refereed articles that are published daily within our National FORUM Journals Online Journal Division. Over 1,000 articles are available to scholars and practitioners world-wide. Over 250,000 guests visit our website yearly. About 56,000 articles are downloaded for academic purposes at no charge. We have about an 88% rejection rate. See: www.nationalforum.com
Founded in 1982, National FORUM Journals has published the scholarly contributions of over 5,200 professors with over 2,000 articles indexed. Our journals are indexed with many global agencies including Cabell’s Directories, ERIC, EBSCO, SWETS International, Library of Congress National Serials Data Program, and the Copyright Clearance Center, Danvers, Massachusetts.
Global Website: www.nationalforum.com
Studies have shown that adult learning occurs best when tasks are purposeful and can be immediately implemented, resulting in improved employee performance. Moreover, learner motivation is greater when existing personal experience and/or interest is an integral factor in course operation. Courses need to invite the learner to maximize understanding of course theories, concepts, and facts by recasting and relating his or her experience with those theories, concepts, and facts, culminating in the employment of new performance-enhancing skills. This presentation briefly outlines the best practices that are to be met to enhance and support Learning in the Workplace.
Bore, samuel k psycho educational groups in schools nfjca v2 n1 2013William Kritsonis
William Allan Kritsonis, Editor-in-Chief, NATIONAL FORUM JOURNALS (Founded 1982). Dr. LaVelle Henricks, Texas A&M University-Commerce and colleagues published in national refereed journal.
Dr. William Allan Kritsonis, Distinguished Alumnus, Central Washington University, College of Education and Professional Studies, Ellensburg, Washington; Invited Guest Lecturer, Oxford Round Table, University of Oxford, United Kingdom; Hall of Honor, Prairie View A&M University/Member of the Texas A&M University System.
Solomon, margaret training reflective educational practitionersWilliam Kritsonis
NATIONAL FORUM JOURNALS (Founded 1982 (www.nationalforum.com) is a group of national and international refereed journals. NFJ publishes articles on colleges, universities and schools; management, business and administration; academic scholarship, multicultural issues; schooling; special education; teaching and learning; counseling and addiction; alcohol and drugs; crime and criminology; disparities in health; risk behaviors; international issues; education; organizational theory and behavior; educational leadership and supervision; action and applied research; teacher education; race, gender, society; public school law; philosophy and history; psychology, sociology, and much more. Dr. William Allan Kritsonis, Editor-in-Chief.
Ethical Decision Making In Education: Utilizing the Ways of Knowing through t...William Kritsonis
Ethical Decision Making In Education: Utilizing the Ways of Knowing through the Realms of Meaning - a presentation by William Allan Kritsonis, PhD
Dr. Kritsonis lectures and conducts seminars and workshops on a variety of topics. He is author of more than 600 articles in professional journals and several books. His popular book SCHOOL DISCIPLINE: The Art of Survival is scheduled for its fourth edition. He is the author of the textbook William Kritsonis, PhD on Schooling that is used by many professors at colleges and universities throughout the nation and abroad.
In 2009, Dr. Kritsonis coauthored the textbook A Statistical Journey: Taming of the Skew. The book has been adopted by professors in many colleges and universities throughout the nation. It was published by the Alexis/Austin Group, Murrieta, California.
In 2008-2009, Dr. Kritsonis coauthored the book Effective Teaching in the Elementary School. First year teachers, as well as seasoned educators will find the chapters of this book packed with practical and workable solutions to typical classroom problems.
In 2007, Dr. Kritsonis’ version of the book of Ways of Knowing Through the Realms of Meaning (858 pages) was published in the United States of America in cooperation with partial financial support of Visiting Lecturers, Oxford Round Table (2005). The book is the product of a collaborative twenty-four year effort started in 1978 with the late Dr. Philip H. Phenix. Dr. Kritsonis was in continuous communication with Dr. Phenix until his death in 2002.
In 2007, Dr. Kritsonis was the lead author of the textbook Practical Applications of Educational Research and Basic Statistics. The text provides practical content knowledge in research for graduate students at the doctoral and master’s levels.
Dr. Kritsonis’ seminar and workshop on Writing for Professional Publication has been very popular with both professors and practitioners. Persons in attendance generate an article to be published in a refereed journal at the national or international levels.
Dr. Kritsonis has traveled and lectured throughout the United States and world-wide. Some recent international tours include Australia, New Zealand, Tasmania, Turkey, Italy, Greece, Monte Carlo, England, Holland, Denmark, Sweden, Finland, Russia, Estonia, Poland, Germany, and many more.
Dr. Fred C. Lunenburg - louder than words ijsaid v12 n1 2010William Kritsonis
Dr. Fred C. Lunenburg, www.nationalforum, NATIONAL FORUM JOURNALS, Houston, Texas, Dr. William Allan Kritsonis, Editor-in-Chief
National FORUM Journals, Founded in 1983, Over 5,000 professors published. All NATIONAL FORUM JOURNALS are refereed, juried, blind-reviewed professional journals intended for a national and world-wide audience. Over 56,000 articles are downloaded each year for academic purposes.
PhD Students in Educational Leadership at Prairie View A&M University/Member of the Texas A&M University System
William Allan Kritsonis, PhD
Professor & Faculty Mentor,
PVAMU - The Texas A&M University System
AN INVESTIGATION OF THE IMPACT OF ATYPICAL PRINCIPAL PREPARATION PROGRAMS ON ...William Kritsonis
AN INVESTIGATION OF THE IMPACT OF ATYPICAL PRINCIPAL PREPARATION PROGRAMS ON SCHOOL ACCOUNTABILITY AND STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT IN HIGH-POVERY SCHOOLS by Sheri L. Miller-Williams, Dissertation Chair: William Allan Kritsonis, PhD
Professorial Roles
Dr. Kritsonis has served in professorial roles at Central Washington University, Washington; Salisbury State University, Maryland; Northwestern State University, Louisiana; McNeese State University, Louisiana; and Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge in the Department of Administrative and Foundational Services.
In 2006, Dr. Kritsonis published two articles in the Two-Volume Set of the Encyclopedia of Educational Leadership and Administration published by SAGE Publications, Thousand Oaks, California. He is a National Reviewer for the Journal of Research on Leadership, University Council for Educational Administration (UCEA).
In 2007, Dr. Kritsonis was invited to write a history and philosophy of education for the ABC-CLIO Encyclopedia of World History.
Currently, Dr. Kritsonis is Professor of Educational Leadership at Prairie View A&M University – Member of the Texas A&M University System. He teaches in the PhD Program in Educational Leadership. Dr. Kritsonis taught the Inaugural class session in the doctoral program at the start of the fall 2004 academic year. In October 2006, Dr. Kritsonis chaired the first doctoral student to earn a PhD in Educational Leadership at Prairie View A&M University. He has chaired over 18 doctoral dissertations. He lives in Houston, Texas.
Educational Background
Dr. William Allan Kritsonis earned his BA in 1969 from Central Washington University, Ellensburg, Washington. In 1971, he earned his M.Ed. from Seattle Pacific University. In 1976, he earned his PhD from the University of Iowa. In 1981, he was a Visiting Scholar at Teachers College, Columbia University, New York, and in 1987 was a Visiting Scholar at Stanford University, Palo Alto, California. In June 2008, Dr. Kritsonis received the Doctor of Humane Letters, School of Graduate Studies from Southern Christian University. The ceremony was held at the Hilton Hotel in New Orleans, Louisiana.
Dr. Fred C. Lunenburg, Curriculum Models for Pre-School Education, Published ...William Kritsonis
Dr. Fred C. Lunenburg, Curriculum Models for Pre-School Education, Published in SCHOOLING - NATIONAL FORUM JOURNALS, www.nationalforum.com - Dr. William Allan Kritsonis, Editor-in-Chief, Houston, Texas
Toni Brown - National FORUM Journals, Houston, TexasWilliam Kritsonis
Toni Brown publishes article in National FORUM Journals, 17603 Bending Post Drive, Houston, Texas 77095
Dr. William Allan Kritsonis
Editor-in-Chief
NATIONAL FORUM JOURNALS
www.nationalforum.com
NATIONAL FORUM OF EDUCATIONAL ADMINISTRATION AND SUPERVISION JOURNAL, Volume ...William Kritsonis
NATIONAL FORUM OF EDUCATIONAL ADMINISTRATION AND SUPERVISION JOURNAL, Volume 30, Number 2, 2013 - Dr. William Allan Kritsonis, Editor-in-Chief - Website: www.nationalforum.com
Dr. William Allan Kritsonis, School Law, Drug Testing, Student Dress and Grooming, Search and Seizure in Public Schools, Privacy Issues, Due Process, Discrimination, Diversity, Legal Procedures, Rights of Students and Employees
The Common Core State Standards (CCSS) were developed through a collaborative effort by educators from all fifty states so that a clear concise set of uniform standards are available to guide K-12 instruction in the United States. Previous to the CCSS no such document existed in the United States. Thus, the CCSS are relatively new and some in the educational community welcome them with open arms while others hesitate to endorse them. This paper researched these divergent perspectives and found that research on educational change can point out the problems and benefits connected to CCSS. Some of this information targets the standards directly and some indirectly. A review of research literature helped present insights with some possible strategies for those who are eager to implement them and those who hesitate to embrace them as both groups work towards the implementation of CCSS which are now mandated by a majority of the 50 states. These insights suggest that implementation of the CCSS should be gradual and well supported so that all educators are adequately prepared and can help facilitate the changes CCSS will require.
Impact of Academic and Social Factors on Education Performance of StudentsSubmissionResearchpa
Counseling makes perfect any human being for living life smoothly. According to phycology people required someone near to him/her with whom he/she can share their thoughts, happiness, emotions etc. and this is required in education also, In education we need to give support to our students for knowing their problems and feeling regarding education, life, career, friends, family etc. in this paper researcher tried to find out the importance of the counseling in the mind of students of the effect of the same in students mind because in the recent time importance of the education is more and the use of technology is also more so its big problem for the students for connecting consciously with the learning, and without consciousness people cannot understand many thinks for life long time it’s just for examination. By using the qualitative research study research has tried to find out solution for the same with the sample of 60 students of undergraduate of Parul University. During the research researcher identified major two internal and external factors in which there are six other factors, with the help of the qualitative research technique. by Rahul Chauhan and Bhoomi R. Chauhan 2020. Impact of Academic and Social Factors on Education Performance of Students. International Journal on Integrated Education. 2, 5 (Mar. 2020), 34-43. DOI:https://doi.org/10.31149/ijie.v2i5.140. https://journals.researchparks.org/index.php/IJIE/article/view/140/137 https://journals.researchparks.org/index.php/IJIE/article/view/140
Mc carty, darla shared leadership nfeasj v32 n4 2014William Kritsonis
NATIONAL FORUM JOURNALS are a group of national and international refereed, blind-reviewed academic journals. NFJ publishes articles academic intellectual diversity, multicultural issues, management, business, administration, issues focusing on colleges, universities, and schools, all aspects of schooling, special education, counseling and addiction, international issues of education, organizational behavior, theory and development, and much more. DR. WILLIAM ALLAN KRITSONIS is Editor-in-Chief (Since 1982). See: www.nationalforum.com
Biological screening of herbal drugs: Introduction and Need for
Phyto-Pharmacological Screening, New Strategies for evaluating
Natural Products, In vitro evaluation techniques for Antioxidants, Antimicrobial and Anticancer drugs. In vivo evaluation techniques
for Anti-inflammatory, Antiulcer, Anticancer, Wound healing, Antidiabetic, Hepatoprotective, Cardio protective, Diuretics and
Antifertility, Toxicity studies as per OECD guidelines
Operation “Blue Star” is the only event in the history of Independent India where the state went into war with its own people. Even after about 40 years it is not clear if it was culmination of states anger over people of the region, a political game of power or start of dictatorial chapter in the democratic setup.
The people of Punjab felt alienated from main stream due to denial of their just demands during a long democratic struggle since independence. As it happen all over the word, it led to militant struggle with great loss of lives of military, police and civilian personnel. Killing of Indira Gandhi and massacre of innocent Sikhs in Delhi and other India cities was also associated with this movement.
Unit 8 - Information and Communication Technology (Paper I).pdfThiyagu K
This slides describes the basic concepts of ICT, basics of Email, Emerging Technology and Digital Initiatives in Education. This presentations aligns with the UGC Paper I syllabus.
Macroeconomics- Movie Location
This will be used as part of your Personal Professional Portfolio once graded.
Objective:
Prepare a presentation or a paper using research, basic comparative analysis, data organization and application of economic information. You will make an informed assessment of an economic climate outside of the United States to accomplish an entertainment industry objective.
The Roman Empire A Historical Colossus.pdfkaushalkr1407
The Roman Empire, a vast and enduring power, stands as one of history's most remarkable civilizations, leaving an indelible imprint on the world. It emerged from the Roman Republic, transitioning into an imperial powerhouse under the leadership of Augustus Caesar in 27 BCE. This transformation marked the beginning of an era defined by unprecedented territorial expansion, architectural marvels, and profound cultural influence.
The empire's roots lie in the city of Rome, founded, according to legend, by Romulus in 753 BCE. Over centuries, Rome evolved from a small settlement to a formidable republic, characterized by a complex political system with elected officials and checks on power. However, internal strife, class conflicts, and military ambitions paved the way for the end of the Republic. Julius Caesar’s dictatorship and subsequent assassination in 44 BCE created a power vacuum, leading to a civil war. Octavian, later Augustus, emerged victorious, heralding the Roman Empire’s birth.
Under Augustus, the empire experienced the Pax Romana, a 200-year period of relative peace and stability. Augustus reformed the military, established efficient administrative systems, and initiated grand construction projects. The empire's borders expanded, encompassing territories from Britain to Egypt and from Spain to the Euphrates. Roman legions, renowned for their discipline and engineering prowess, secured and maintained these vast territories, building roads, fortifications, and cities that facilitated control and integration.
The Roman Empire’s society was hierarchical, with a rigid class system. At the top were the patricians, wealthy elites who held significant political power. Below them were the plebeians, free citizens with limited political influence, and the vast numbers of slaves who formed the backbone of the economy. The family unit was central, governed by the paterfamilias, the male head who held absolute authority.
Culturally, the Romans were eclectic, absorbing and adapting elements from the civilizations they encountered, particularly the Greeks. Roman art, literature, and philosophy reflected this synthesis, creating a rich cultural tapestry. Latin, the Roman language, became the lingua franca of the Western world, influencing numerous modern languages.
Roman architecture and engineering achievements were monumental. They perfected the arch, vault, and dome, constructing enduring structures like the Colosseum, Pantheon, and aqueducts. These engineering marvels not only showcased Roman ingenuity but also served practical purposes, from public entertainment to water supply.
Embracing GenAI - A Strategic ImperativePeter Windle
Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies such as Generative AI, Image Generators and Large Language Models have had a dramatic impact on teaching, learning and assessment over the past 18 months. The most immediate threat AI posed was to Academic Integrity with Higher Education Institutes (HEIs) focusing their efforts on combating the use of GenAI in assessment. Guidelines were developed for staff and students, policies put in place too. Innovative educators have forged paths in the use of Generative AI for teaching, learning and assessments leading to pockets of transformation springing up across HEIs, often with little or no top-down guidance, support or direction.
This Gasta posits a strategic approach to integrating AI into HEIs to prepare staff, students and the curriculum for an evolving world and workplace. We will highlight the advantages of working with these technologies beyond the realm of teaching, learning and assessment by considering prompt engineering skills, industry impact, curriculum changes, and the need for staff upskilling. In contrast, not engaging strategically with Generative AI poses risks, including falling behind peers, missed opportunities and failing to ensure our graduates remain employable. The rapid evolution of AI technologies necessitates a proactive and strategic approach if we are to remain relevant.
Synthetic Fiber Construction in lab .pptxPavel ( NSTU)
Synthetic fiber production is a fascinating and complex field that blends chemistry, engineering, and environmental science. By understanding these aspects, students can gain a comprehensive view of synthetic fiber production, its impact on society and the environment, and the potential for future innovations. Synthetic fibers play a crucial role in modern society, impacting various aspects of daily life, industry, and the environment. ynthetic fibers are integral to modern life, offering a range of benefits from cost-effectiveness and versatility to innovative applications and performance characteristics. While they pose environmental challenges, ongoing research and development aim to create more sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives. Understanding the importance of synthetic fibers helps in appreciating their role in the economy, industry, and daily life, while also emphasizing the need for sustainable practices and innovation.
1. TYRUS DOCTOR and WILLIAM ALLAN KRITSONIS
Introduction
Nationwide school communities are faced with the extreme and gut wrenching
task of successfully meeting state and federal accountability guidelines. Upon the
passing of the No Child Left Behind Act, the onus of reaching these goals lies in the
hands of district superintendents, principals, teachers and students. This has put
extreme pressure on superintendents and principals to ensure that their students
perform at an exemplary level.
An educator’s main goal shall be to provide students with the best education
possible, while providing them with the skills needed to be successful in their future
endeavors. In an effort to achieve students’ success and reach state and federal
accountability standards, it is imperative that educators have a detailed plan to achieve
these goals. To assume that these goals may be reached without Postmodernistic
forethought and planning would prove to be catastrophic to the entire school
community. Thus, it is the obligation of educational leaders to implement a
“Postmodern” organizational plan that will assist in the success of our schools and,
most of all, the success of our students.
Purpose of the Article
The purpose of this article is to express the significance of postmodernism
using the six realms of meaning found in the Ways of Knowing Through the Realms
of Meaning (2007) by Dr. William A. Kritsonis. Upon reading The Ways of Knowing
Through the Realms of Meaning, it becomes apparent that each of the Realms
explained in this text may be applied to each postmodern educational entity.
Postmodernism will provide students with an educational experience comprised of
strong academic skills, effective teachers and opportunities for growth.
Symbolics in Instructional Management
The postmodern principal of an effective school serves as an exceptional
educational leader, who is a highly valuable and consistent communicator with
parents, students, and staff. The ability for a principal to articulate well with each
stakeholder is imperative for the overall success of the school. This type of
postmodern leadership ability allows principals to develop relationships with students,
parents, and staff in nontraditional ways, which Blankstein asserts by stating that
“Relationships are at the core of successful learning communities (2004). This
postmodern notion unites the knower and the known, abolishes objectivity and
subjectivity, and erases the line between fact and fiction leaders and followers
(English, 2003).
“The first realm, symbolics, comprises ordinary language, mathematics and
various types of nondiscursive symbolic forms, such as gestures, rituals, rhythmic
patterns, and the like” (Kritsonis, 2007, p. 11). As stated in Ways of Knowing
Through the Realms of Meaning (Kritsonis, 2007), there is an ordinary language that
is utilized in communications among with people. This form of language is “the forms
of discourse employed in everyday speech and writing” (Kritsonis, 2007, p. 111). It is
clear and concise, which allows others to have a lucid understanding of what is ex-
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2. TYRUS DOCTOR and WILLIAM ALLAN KRITSONIS
pected of them or what they should take away from any conversations you may have.
The use of ordinary language by educational leaders’ would assist in developing a
clear line of communication. Communication between all stakeholders that is
unambiguous and distinct is imperative to the success of the school.
Principals also provide opportunities for others to share in leadership roles in
that the principal and staff must work collaboratively to articulate and stress the
importance of learning, establishing high expectations for students, teachers, and
principals (California Center). Likewise, English validates such communication by
asserting that “Such leadership [transformation] occurs when one or more persons
engage with others in such a way that leaders and followers raise one another to
higher levels of motivation and mortality” (2003, p. 42). With educators under
extreme scrutiny and higher accountability standards, the determination that every
child will succeed could be a postmodern thought because while we recognize the
enormity of this task, we also know it can be accomplished. There is not one person
(Principal) who can handle this job alone. Thus, it is important for instructional
leaders to develop postmodern leaders within their school. Developing these leaders
will be beneficial to the success of the entire school community. One thing that
superior school administrators have in common is that they “trust and have confidence
in both the capabilities and the motivation of subordinates and believe that they want
to accept responsibility and work hard” (Kritsonis, 2007, p. 152). Blankstein concurs
with this idea in stating that when you invest power in other people; it inevitably
comes back to you (2004).
Empirics in School Organizational Moral
Bardwick’s question, “What is the business of our business?” (as cited in
Blankstein, 2004, pg. 65). It is an important question that should be asked by any
postmodern institution before addressing students’ needs. Having a clear and focused
mission is vital to student success. Without such a mission, one cannot know which
direction to go to address the entire school community and its stakeholders. English
supports the importance of this business by stating that by “Moving into a postmodern
view of theories of educational administration, the dominant scientific modality has to
be decentered, pushed aside” (2003, p. 140). The concept that “Mission and purpose
give guidance to what people work toward on a daily and weekly basis” (Deal &
Peterson, 1996, p. 12) serves to promote the notion of establishing a focus for all
stakeholders.
The strategic plan must have a postmodern school mission that is clearly
stated. It shall include postmodern campus level goals, expectations and standards. It
is important to have the school’s mission clearly stated, but we must also ensure that
others are knowledgeable and understand the postmodern mission.
“The second realm empirics, includes the sciences of the physical world, of
living things, and of man” (Kritsonis, 2007, p. 12). By implementing this postmodern
realm, educational leaders will ensure that they provide each stakeholder with the
information necessary for the implementation of their postmodern goals and mission.
Kritsonis further states that “The essence of physical science is the discovery and
formulation of general patterns among quantities derived from the process of physical
measurement” (p. 178). In establishing a clear and focused mission it is important
that what is determined to be necessary must be measurable. To have a goal that can
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3. TYRUS DOCTOR and WILLIAM ALLAN KRITSONIS
not be measured would be irrelevant and unnecessary. Blankstein’s (2004) idea that
effective missions are measurable and define learning coincides with Kritsonis’
statement that “Precise calculations depend on precise data” (Kritsonis, 2007, p. 188).
The ability to measure a school’s success and its mission depends on concise data;
otherwise, your school and the success of your students will be catastrophically
affected.
Ethics in Safe School Environment
In recent decades we have noticed an increase in the amount of instances of
school violence: “Since the 1992-1993 school year, 270 violent deaths have occurred
in schools within the nation. However the number of deaths in 1999-2000 was almost
one quarter the number that occurred in 1992-1993 (Kelly, 2009). School violence has
moved from just a couple of kids having a fist fight on the playground to one or more
students armed with weapons killing teachers and fellow students. This has caused
extreme concern and caution among school personnel. Educational leaders across the
country are participating in postmodern mock drills, bus evacuation, and shelter in
place, in an effort to prepare students and staff in the event that there is a threat on the
school. Although it is important to have such drills, it is even more important to
provide students with the skills needed to prevent possible violence. Educational
leaders should be advocates for programs that implement Character Education or
Conflict Resolution strategies. Skills developed through these programs provide
students with the tools needed to handle conflict with the absence of violence. This
type of strategic plan works because, according to Kanigel (1997) “The concept of
best practice, which is the equivalent of Taylor’s one best way, are both derived from
empirical work of the match between methods and means and determined not by
teachers (workers) but by experts (researchers)” (as cited in English, 2003, p. 65).
According to Kritsonis (2007), “The fifth realm, ethics, includes moral
meanings that express obligation rather than fact, perceptual form, or awareness of
relation” (p. 452). To implement programs such as Character Education and Conflict
Resolution alone would not assist in the success of a schools safety. We must address
the moral and ethical issues of our students. We must teach them to be empathetic and
caring of others, as Kritsonis further states in saying that students must be able to
relate with others and with oneself in acceptance and love, to act with deliberate
responsibility, and to coordinate these meanings into an integrated vision and
commitment (2007).
It is imperative that educational leaders of effective schools create a
postmodern safe and orderly environment. It is not a surprise that students who are in
a safe and conducive environment will be more successful both academically and
socially. Incorporating each of these will in turn provide the type of school culture
necessary for academic success.
Synoptics in Student Management
Many educators scream with conviction that “every child can learn” when
among their educational counterparts. Do they, however, really believe that every
child can learn? Do they have these same convictions when in their own home,
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community, or classroom? Do they exhibit the mentality that every child can learn
among their students, despite their diverse backgrounds whether low socio-economic,
cultural or linguistically?
It is important as instructional leaders for us to ensure that students and staff
members alike understand that their past circumstances do not have to dictate their
future, which Kritsonis further supports in asserting that “The appropriate mode of
discourse for history is the past tense” (2007, p. 41). Yes, every child can learn, and
will learn under postmodern leadership.
“The sixth realm, synoptics, refers to meanings that are comprehensively
integrative. This realm includes history, religion, and philosophy” (Kritsonis, 2007, p.
484). The postmodern strategic plan will exhibit a climate of expectation in which the
staff believes and demonstrates that all students can attain mastery of essential
academic skills. This is a postmodern philosophy among effective schools.
The school climate will also be affected by the way administrators carry out
their postmodern administrative duties. According to Kritsonis, “a primary role of
school principals is to be a child advocate, manager, instructional leader,
disciplinarian, human relations facilitator, educator, conflict manager, collective
bargaining agent, staff developer, change agent or innovator, and community relations
liaison” (Kritsonis, 2002, p. 252). To maintain a postmodern environment and climate
that is conducive to learning, principals must not dismiss the importance of each of
these roles. To neglect one of these primary roles will have a catastrophic affect on
the school climate and effectiveness of the school.
In a postmodern school, you must continuously monitor students’ progress by
utilizing different methods of assessment. The school’s ability to make improvement
plans is directly tied to the quality of its data. Without clear, quantifiable information,
leaders will find it very difficult to create focused improvement plans (Blankstein,
2004). Blankstein further asserts that the value of any instructional practice should be
judged according to its results.
Although standardized tests and other state level assessments (summative) are
beneficial, in a postmodern school it shall not be the only method of assessment
utilized with the monitoring of student progress. Educational leaders must establish a
current (postmodern) way of assessing student progress. “This postmodern notion
unites the knower and the known, abolishes objectivity and subjectivity, and erases
the line between fact and fiction, leaders and followers” (English, 2003, p. 130). It is
important for administrators to know that frequent monitoring of their students goes
beyond the collection of data. They must disaggregate that data and make
observations collectively with staff. Based upon this collection and disaggregation of
the data, they will use the date to target intervention and prevention strategies for the
needs of their school (Blankstein, 2004). Educational leaders must utilize the data
that is collected; to allow it to sit on a shelf and collect dust will not assist in the
success of a postmodern school.
The collection of such data will provide educational leaders with clear and
concise data on where their students are, where they are, and where they are going.
“Each event begins, proceeds toward its end, and is completed” (Kritsonis, 2002, p.
257). English (2003) concurs with this point by affirming that “In the act of creating
accountability for results, it becomes important to focus on data that will be used to
enable accountability to become a reality. One facet of accountability is the capability
of tacking results (as indicated in data trends) to those who manage (make decisions
about the work) to those who do the work” (p. 165). This information is essential to
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5. TYRUS DOCTOR and WILLIAM ALLAN KRITSONIS
the development, continuance, or termination of programs or strategies that are used
within a school.
Esthetics in Positive Community Relations
“The third realm, esthetics, contains the various arts, such as music, the visual
arts, the arts of movement, and literature. Meanings in this realm are concerned with
the contemplative perceptions of particular significant things as unique
objectifications of ideated subjectivities” (Kritsonis, 2007, p. 275). Esthetics is based
on one’s senses or feelings, which makes having a positive community relationship a
postmodern essential to student success. “Postmodernity does expand the idea of
leadership to broader perspective than has usually been the case. But English suspect
that it will be stoutly resisted as “irrational” or “subjective” (English, 2003, p.26).
Principals who have established Postmodern Relations will endure the benefits
of such a partnership. They will notice and increase in student achievement and
motivation and thus academic success. In an effective postmodern school, parents are
provided with a clear understanding of the school’s mission and are provided with a
strategic plan to support the mission.
The age old proverb, “It takes a village to raise a child”, plays an intricate part
in the education of our students. The education of our students is a shared
responsibility and should be treated as such. Educators must not view children as
simply students. If educators view children in this way, “they are likely to see the
family as separate from the school. That is, the family is expected to do its job and
leave the education of children to the schools. If educators view students as children,
they are likely to see both the family and the community as partners…” (Epstein,
2009, p. 20). To establish this partnership would be to honor and acknowledge that
we share common interests and goals.
Synnoetics in Organizational Improvement
In a highly effective school, postmodern teachers allocate an ample amount of
time to relevant instruction. This allows students to have an increase in their
opportunities for learning because relevance make rigor possible for most.
Although direct instruction plays an essential role in the success of student
learning experience, students’ motivation to complete the task assigned is as
important. Those who have taught know and understand that keeping a child
motivated is not always an easy task. With an increase in environmental issues such
as poverty, abuse, and domestic violence (to name a few) violating the lives of many
of our youth, it is of no surprise that they are not always motivated. It is our duty and
obligation as educators, however, to ensure that we make every attempt to increase
students’ motivation.
It is in the fourth realm that engagement is required. “The fourth realm,
synnoetics, embraces what Michael Polanyi calls “ ‘personal knowledge’ ” and Martin
Buber the “ ‘I-Thou’ ” relation” (Kritsonis, 2007, p. 394).
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6. TYRUS DOCTOR and WILLIAM ALLAN KRITSONIS
Concluding Remarks
In conclusion, in an effort to increase student achievement and effectiveness of
schools, the utilization of the six realms in relation with postmodern thinking will
provide a framework that will assist in the achievement of those goals. Remarkably,
the Ways of Knowing Through the Realms of Meaning (Kritsonis, 2007) may be
applied to any aspect of education.
It is the obligation of each educational leader to provide students with the tools
needed to succeed; this may not be done on a whim. We must plan to reach our goals,
thus we must have a postmodern strategic plan. Blankstein states,
The research is abundantly clear: Nothing motivates a child more than
when learning is valued by schools and family/community working
together in partnership…These forms of involvement does not happen
by accident or even by invitation. They happen by explicit strategic
intervention. (2004, p.167)
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Blankstein, A.M. (2004). Failure is not an option. Thousand Oaks, CA: Corwin Press.
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Deal, T. E., & Peterson, K.D. (1999). Shaping school culture: The heart of
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English, F.W. (2003). The postmodern challenge to the theory and practice of
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National FORUM Journals have about a 15% acceptance rate
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