Leading Learning

This book explores the concept of distributed leadership and its impact on educational settings, emphasizing the relationship between leadership and learning in schools.

This insightful book delves into the evolving concept of 'distributed leadership,' emphasizing the intricate relationship between leadership and learning within educational environments. The study of educational leadership becomes meaningful when it considers who the leaders are, their methods, the focus of their leadership, and the resulting impact. Centered on the idea that learning is fundamental to effective leadership, the Leading Learning series investigates the connections among educational leadership, policy, curriculum, human resources, and accountability. Each volume adopts a structured approach, examining process, themes, and impact.

The authors, O’Donoghue and Clarke, challenge the traditional notion that exceptional leaders are solely responsible for school transformation, advocating instead for a distributed leadership model. This perspective recognizes that all stakeholders play vital roles in enhancing student learning, promoting a more sustainable framework for understanding educational change. Within this context, the book distinguishes between two essential groups: 'leaders of learning' and 'leaders for learning.' The focus of Leading Learning is on the former, which includes teachers, principals, students, and community members actively working to improve classroom learning.

Moreover, the authors argue that effective leadership necessitates a comprehensive understanding of contemporary leadership theories, recent learning theories, and the importance of ongoing professional development for teachers. By providing innovative examples from various international contexts, Leading Learning enriches the discussion on modern approaches to educational leadership, making it an essential read for students and academics involved in educational leadership and management.