Question

learning about personalities and individual values from the social change model of leadership

Answer 1

In understanding the leadership model presented here, it is necessary to assume that a "leadership development group" has been formed and that the group intends to engage in some form of change-action project as the primary vehicle for developing leadership skills.

BASIC PREMISES:

The model is inclusive in that it is designed to enhance the development of leadership qualities in all participants- those who hold formal leadership positions as well as those who do not - and to promote a process that is inclusive and actively engages all who wish to contribute.

• Leadership is viewed as a process rather than as a position.
• The model explicitly promotes the values of equity, social justice, self-knowledge, personal empowerment, collaboration, citizenship, and service.
• Service provides a powerful vehicle for developing student leadership capabilities in a collaborative environment. Learning happens by "making meaning" of life experiences.
• While the model was initially designed to assist professionals in the field of student affairs who are engaged (or wish to engage) in facilitating leadership development among students, we have come to realize that it can also be useful to faculty and academic administrators or to students who are interested in undertaking leadership development projects on their own.
• The model is only one of the many possible models of leadership development. It is presented as a working framework that is subject to regular revision and refinement based on the experience of those who use it. Practitioners and students may very well find certain elements in the model to be more applicable or relevant than others. Moreover, different types of institutions may need to make some modifications in accordance with their institutional missions.

• The model has two primary goals:
  1. To enhance student learning and development; more specifically, to develop in each student greater: Self-knowledge: understanding of one's talents, values, interests, especially as these relate to the student's capacity to provide effective leadership.
  2. Leadership Competence: the capacity to mobilize oneself and others to serve and work collaboratively.

To facilitate positive social change at the institution or in the community. That is, to undertake actions which will help the institution/community to function more effectively and humanely.