5304: Self Differentiated Leadership- PART A

I am thrilled to be leading the implementation of a new pilot program at my school. This is an opportunity for me to share my passion for game design with students and equip them with valuable skills for the future. However, for this program to truly succeed, there are several key factors I need to consider:

1. Develop a vision and goals. It's important that I have a clear understanding of what I want students to learn and where I see the program going. With well-defined goals and a vision to guide us, we can stay focused and motivated.

2. Advocate for resources. Game design requires access to specific software, hardware and facilities. I will engage with school administrators to make the case for proper funding and resources. Aligning expectations through open conversations will ensure the program is set up for success.

3. Build student relationships. Taking time to connect with students individually will promote engagement and enjoyment. Understanding their needs helps tailor the program for maximal growth.

4. Collaborate with colleagues. Partnering with teachers across disciplines allows us to share ideas while connecting game design concepts to other subjects. This cross-curricular approach enriches learning.

5. Pursue professional development. By continuously improving my own skills and knowledge, I can better serve students and evolve course content. Staying current on trends and techniques is key.

6. Reflect and gather feedback. Self-assessment along with input from students, colleagues and partners will help identify areas for improvement. This feedback loop is invaluable.

Additionally, by employing crucial conversation techniques (Patterson et al., 2002), I can have productive dialogues to initiate these strategies. For example, when requesting resources from administrators, I can focus the discussion on shared goals, ask thoughtful questions and appeal to common interests. This collaborative approach fosters support and shared ownership in the program.

At our school, this framework would enable me to lead with innovation while cultivating an engaging game design program that meets the needs of all stakeholders. With vision-driven leadership and open communication, we can equip students with invaluable skills for the future.

References:

Patterson, K., Grenny, J., McMillan, R., & Switzler, A. (2002). Crucial conversations. McGraw-Hill.