Generational Attributes of Educational Leadership: A Mid North Coast Perspective - Dataet

Abstract

Educational leadership was investigated from three generational perspectives within a Mid North Coast (MNC) school context. A collective case study enabled comparative exploration of Baby Boomers, Generation X and Generation Y (2 females and 2 males from each generation). Participant selection was based on age, gender and either aspirational or established leaders. Investigation of generation attributes towards leadership was conducted through twelve interviews. Interview data were recorded, transcribed and analysed using both manual coding and Leximancer text mining software. Findings contributed to the idea of generational collide and the concepts of self and identity, knowledge and skills and professional learning emerged as interconnected. Implications informed a new leadership framework to guide MNC educational leaders and systemic reforms for professional learning.