Socialization paradox: a challenge for educational leaders

Abstract

A paradox can be noted when the call for school reform is juxtaposed against the socialization process of school administrators. The current demographic shift among students, the globalization of the economy and the technological demands of the information age are all converging to create challenges and opportunities for school systems that are unique and unprecedented. School leaders are being asked to become transformational reformers by drastically redefining the structures and systems of the schools to meet the ever-changing demands of the 21st century. However, the socialization process of school administrators tends towards the maintenance and continuity of the status quo. Indeed, large scale transformations of schools will not occur without dramatically altering the preparation of educational leaders, thus the paradox. Schools need their principals to become integrated into the group, but they also need creativity and new ideas. These two needs make the effects of socialization during leader succession critical factors shaping future events in the school (Hart 1993:15).