Module 9 Activity 1 Self Assessment

Self Assessment as a Leader

For several years, I have played the role of a leader dealing with a myriad of personalities to ensure that a specific set of curricula meet the needs of the children and are that they are taught the correct way. The leadership skills used ensured that at the end, each person works towards the common goal of the programme. I practice leadership skills that are commensurate with the individuals that I have to deal with.  I do not believe in fighting fire with fire, and as a result of this, I find different ways of dealing with the matters at hand. Instead of the traditional top down type of leadership, I make each team member see the reason why certain things are done.  With this type of ‘buy in’, the members will be a part of the decision making and will be more compelled to achieve the goals set.

A good leader is one who can achieve goals by having input from each member of his team. He/she has a vision which is the guiding principle upon which he/she operates.  As a leader, I try to incorporate as many of the following characteristics as possible.

• ·         A good leader is capable of inspiring his team members to see the vision and work towards achieving it. He should be able to motivate his team members to want to achieve the goals of the group.
• ·         He uses his intuition to help him to make decisions. When leading a team, there might be unchartered waters and it is up to the leader to lead his team members along the path.  For example, in a school where ICT is to be integrated, there will be areas of uncertainty and it is the leader’s responsibility to chart the course.
• ·         Is creativity: As a leader, it is important to learn to think outside the box and to choose which of two bad choices is the best option. By utilizing all possible options before making a rash decision, a leader can typically reach the end conclusion he/she was aiming for.
• ·         Has a positive attitude: A leader wants to keep his team motivated towards the continued success of the effort, and keep the energy levels up. 
• ·         Has the ability to delegate: The key to delegation is identifying the strengths of the team that you lead, and capitalizing on them.
• ·         Is honesty: A leader must make honest and ethical behaviour a key value and the team will follow suit.
• ·        Is good at communicating: Being able to clearly and succinctly describe what you want done is extremely important in a leader. If a leader cannot relate his vision to his team, team members won’t all be working towards the same goal.
• ·         Is committed: If a leader expects his team to work hard and produce quality content, he is going to need to lead by example. 
• ·         Is confident: As the leader, by staying calm and confident, you will help keep the team feeling the same.

·         Confidence: As the leader, by staying calm and confident, you will help keep the team feeling the same.