Upon completion of class you should be able to…
1. Define Self-Determination
2. Describe Consensus Building Techniques
Concepts and Definitions
1. Self-Determination
2. Consensus
3. Universal Rights
Pre-Class Activities
Required Materials
1. Why making the decisions the right way is more important than making the right decisions (Michael Roberto)
Supplemental Materials
1. Consensus Guide (Seeds for Change)
Case Study
Unfortunately, the parents are fervently opposed to this suggestion, and think the money should instead be spent on Smart Boards for classrooms, as they will help to engage students and enhance learning. Approximately half of the students at the school are from Shadyside, a wealthier neighborhood home to high-income families, many of whom are represented on the leadership team. However, a portion of the students (about 20%) at the school come from Hazlewood a poor region of Pittsburgh and you know that for those students, the school is the only place where they have the opportunity to access computers. Unfortunately, the Hazlewood parents are not well-represented on the leadership team. The teachers on the leadership team are split in half on the issue.
As the school principal, you know your students desperately need new computers to learn on so they are prepared for the future. For this week’s meeting, you need to strategize on how to push your own agenda. What is your optimal solution to this specific issue? Keep in mind, this solution also sets the stage for successful long-term partnerships within the leadership team.
Inspired by Seeking one vision from many views; model for leadership by consensus has mixed reception in the schools
Points to Ponder
- What characterizes the ‘wrong way’ to make decisions?
- What were some difficult decisions that you had to make with regards to your venture while on the ground in Kenya?
Bring to Class
- 3 take-aways from each of the required materials
- Analyzed case study