Harvey, T. R., Bearley, W. & Corkrum, S.M. (2001) - Core steps in decision making

On a daily basis, working in my role as a TL, I am approached by colleagues, parents and children to help solve problems. In perfect world, they would have more of a curriculum focus, but the majority of them do not directly relate to improving the teaching and learning taking place. I think I am approached so regularly because I am one of the longest serving expatriate staff members in the school (6 yrs) so I have a lot of knowledge of the 'culture' of the school and also I am easily identifiable/locatable because of my role.
The six-step approach defined by Harvey et al is a good reflection of the way I like to try to solve these problems. Harvey et al tell us, as a general rule, to "adapt, not adopt" and that schools/organisations must "remain flexible and constantly renew themselves" if they want to move with the times in a rapidly changing environment. For education to be relevant for the world our students live in, it is vital that schools evolve as necessary - just like on a computer, leaders should click the 'refresh' button every so often in their approach to solving problems.

Hough, M. J. & Paine, J. (1997) - Collaborative decision making with teams.

The theme that recurred throughout this article is that of sharing: the sharing of vision, beliefs, information, knowledge, empowerment, etc. This means that communication between all members of the school community must be at the forefront of strategic planning if it is to be successful. I believe that when sharing takes place and people are informed, they are able to accept change more easily, knowing the reasons behind the changes taking place and knowing that the powers that be have acted thoughtfully and openly.