Understanding (10 Marks):
1. Define the concept of the school as a system/organization as discussed in the
module.
How does viewing a school in this way enhance our understanding of its
functioning?
1. Concept of the School as a System/Organization
A school can be viewed as a system or organization that comprises various
interdependent and interacting components, each contributing to the overall function
and success of the educational institution. According to Kenneth Eisold (2009), the
organization of a school is best understood as a loosely coupled set of overlapping
systems: the student system, faculty system, parent system, and administration
system. Each of these systems has its own distinct focus and objectives:
This system is primarily concerned with learner education and development. It includes
the various academic and extracurricular programs designed to enhance students'
knowledge, skills, and overall growth. Focused on maintaining professional standards
and effective teaching, this system includes teachers and educational staff who deliver
instruction and support learners in their learning journeys. This system emphasizes the
relationship between the school and the child, involving parents and guardians in the
educational process to ensure that students receive support both at school and at
home. And responsible for the management of the entire school, this system oversees
security, external relations, resource allocation, and policy implementation.
Viewing a school as an organization with these interconnected systems enhances our
understanding of its functioning by highlighting the need for effective communication
and collaboration among different stakeholders. It underscores the importance of
creating a cohesive environment where each system supports and reinforces the
others. A well-functioning school climate facilitates this communication and prevents
the degeneration into suspicion and mutual hostility among different groups (Eisold,
2009).
, 2. Identify key components of a school system/organization. How do these
components interact to create a holistic educational environment?
2. Key Components of a School System/Organization
The central focus of the educational process. Their learning and development are the
primary goals of the school.
Teachers and educational staff who are responsible for delivering instruction,
assessing learner progress, and providing support. They play a crucial role in
maintaining academic standards and fostering a positive learning environment.
Curriculum and instructional materials and content and resources used to deliver
education. A well-designed curriculum aligned with educational standards ensures that
students receive a comprehensive education.
Includes school leaders, such as principals and administrative staff, who manage the
school's operations, enforce policies, and ensure a safe and productive learning
environment. Their involvement and support are essential for reinforcing the school's
efforts and ensuring that learners receive consistent encouragement and guidance.
The broader community, including local businesses, organizations, and government
entities, which can provide resources, support, and opportunities for learners
These components interact in various ways to create a holistic educational
environment:
Effective communication and collaboration among teachers, learners, parents, and
administrators are essential for addressing issues, sharing information, and ensuring
that everyone is working towards common goals. The administration must ensure that
resources, such as funding, materials, and staff, are allocated efficiently to support
teaching and learning activities. Providing support systems for learners, such as
counseling, special education services, and extracurricular activities, enhances their
overall development and well-being.
1. Define the concept of the school as a system/organization as discussed in the
module.
How does viewing a school in this way enhance our understanding of its
functioning?
1. Concept of the School as a System/Organization
A school can be viewed as a system or organization that comprises various
interdependent and interacting components, each contributing to the overall function
and success of the educational institution. According to Kenneth Eisold (2009), the
organization of a school is best understood as a loosely coupled set of overlapping
systems: the student system, faculty system, parent system, and administration
system. Each of these systems has its own distinct focus and objectives:
This system is primarily concerned with learner education and development. It includes
the various academic and extracurricular programs designed to enhance students'
knowledge, skills, and overall growth. Focused on maintaining professional standards
and effective teaching, this system includes teachers and educational staff who deliver
instruction and support learners in their learning journeys. This system emphasizes the
relationship between the school and the child, involving parents and guardians in the
educational process to ensure that students receive support both at school and at
home. And responsible for the management of the entire school, this system oversees
security, external relations, resource allocation, and policy implementation.
Viewing a school as an organization with these interconnected systems enhances our
understanding of its functioning by highlighting the need for effective communication
and collaboration among different stakeholders. It underscores the importance of
creating a cohesive environment where each system supports and reinforces the
others. A well-functioning school climate facilitates this communication and prevents
the degeneration into suspicion and mutual hostility among different groups (Eisold,
2009).
, 2. Identify key components of a school system/organization. How do these
components interact to create a holistic educational environment?
2. Key Components of a School System/Organization
The central focus of the educational process. Their learning and development are the
primary goals of the school.
Teachers and educational staff who are responsible for delivering instruction,
assessing learner progress, and providing support. They play a crucial role in
maintaining academic standards and fostering a positive learning environment.
Curriculum and instructional materials and content and resources used to deliver
education. A well-designed curriculum aligned with educational standards ensures that
students receive a comprehensive education.
Includes school leaders, such as principals and administrative staff, who manage the
school's operations, enforce policies, and ensure a safe and productive learning
environment. Their involvement and support are essential for reinforcing the school's
efforts and ensuring that learners receive consistent encouragement and guidance.
The broader community, including local businesses, organizations, and government
entities, which can provide resources, support, and opportunities for learners
These components interact in various ways to create a holistic educational
environment:
Effective communication and collaboration among teachers, learners, parents, and
administrators are essential for addressing issues, sharing information, and ensuring
that everyone is working towards common goals. The administration must ensure that
resources, such as funding, materials, and staff, are allocated efficiently to support
teaching and learning activities. Providing support systems for learners, such as
counseling, special education services, and extracurricular activities, enhances their
overall development and well-being.
