Leadership is generally considered a key element in organizational effectiveness, but there is little agreement on what it is. Management and leadership are often used interchangeably, further confounding its meaning. There is a need to develop a personal definition of leadership and relate that definition to its role in making organizations more effective. One tool used to accomplish this goal is the tool of reflection, that act of bringing prior experience to a new situation, applying it to that situation, making some sense of it and identifying ways of applying it to future situations. Unit Learning Goals – When you finish this unit, you will be able to:Articulate a personal definition of leadership, based upon your previous experience, readings in preparation for this unit, and your participation in class discussions. Write reflections, capturing your thoughts about key experiences and concepts as they relate to your definition of leadership (which will continue to change and grow). Describe your own leadership style as portrayed by an instrument designed to give you feedback on your management v. leadership tendencies. Use the results of self-assessment to create personal and organizational goals which you can implement immediately.
Questions to be answered before class as you complete the reading assignment:What is your definition of leadership? Does your definition focus on the individual, or the group? What are the implications of either? Are management and leadership the same? If not, what are the differences?Can anyone be a leader? Are you a leader? Are there any special considerations of leadership in urban settings? In educational v. business settings? Is leadership the same in all organizations? Summary of Key Points:Management and leadership are different – both are important.There is no one best definition of leadership. A personal understanding of one’s strengths and needs is essential to the development of a leadership style and strategy. Reflection is a useful tool that will aid in personal growth, insight, and the ability to collect and focus thought and effort. click for download.