Inviting innovation: Leading meaningful change in schools

Abstract

Education in New Zealand (and indeed the world) is currently facing the greatest period of rapid change it has ever experienced. Challenges such as how to address chronic underachievement, what to do with ultra-fast broadband or mobile devices, the implementation of modern learning environments, developing inquiry or project-based learning, or even how to deliver an increased level of personalisation and student agency in learning, require schools to make significant changes to behaviours and norms that have endured for decades if not centuries. What is clear is that while “industrial model” thinking may have served schools well during the industrial age, the 21st century requires a much more innovative, entrepreneurial approach to leading change if schools are to ensure that they are constantly evolving and adapting to best meet student, parent, whānau, and community needs in a rapidly changing world.