Leadership Journal: Leadership Competencies

To prepare for this journal read Howard Gardner’s Five Minds for the Future (Links to an external site.). You will specifically reflect on each competency within the source:

• A disciplined mind
• A synthesizing mind
• A creative mind
• A respectful mind
• An ethical mind

Throughout your program you have discussed, and will continue to discuss, the importance of becoming a 21st-century educator. Equally important is preparing your students for being 21st-century learners. One way to do both is through reflective guidance in what Howard Gardner describes as the “Five Minds for the Future.” According to Gardner (2008), the “Five Minds are competencies which young people and the society need in the twenty first century going forward” (p. 2). For your leadership journal, reflect on each of these competencies as a leader in the field of early childhood education.

Part 1: Content/Course Reflection (1pt.)

• How will you prepare those children, their families, and the staff in your care in each competency? Be sure you provide specific details on each competency.
• If you were to add a sixth competency, what would it be and why?

Part 2: Program/Personal Reflection (2pts.)

• How does each competency influence you as a leader personally? Be sure you provide at least one example for each competency.  
• How does your understanding of each of these competencies positively impact your ability as a leader to evaluate curriculum materials and models and ensure alignment with standards?

Integrative and Critical Thinking Expectations (demonstrated within the content of the journal):

• Connections to Experience (.5 point): Meaningfully synthesizes connections among experiences both within and outside of coursework to deepen understanding of fields of study and to broaden own points of view.
• Reflection and Self-Assessment (.5 point): Envisions a future self and possibly makes plans that build on experiences that have occurred across multiple and diverse contexts.

Research and Resource Expectations:

• Sources are not required for your journal assignments. However, if you need to cite information, you must cite in APA format and include a reference page.

Writing and Formatting Expectations (1pt.):

• Professional Reflective Voice (.25 points): Journals may be written in a less formal, but still professional voice (avoids casual language). First person voice is encouraged.
• Organization (.25 points): Demonstrates logical progression of ideas.
• Syntax and Mechanics (.25 points): Writing displays meticulous comprehension and organization of syntax and mechanics, such as spelling, grammar, and punctuation.
• APA Formatting (.25 points): Papers are formatted properly and all sources (if used) are cited and referenced in APA style as outlined in the 
• Suggested Assignment Length:Two double-spaced pages, not including title and reference pages.