Assessment Center | Old Dominion University
Program Description
The half-day assessment center consists of challenging simulations that provide a realistic representation of the principalship. The assessment center experience consists of three to five inter-related simulations. Participants engage in an in-basket exercise that provides context for each of the subsequent exercises. Participants confer with a teacher to discuss instructional issues and with a parent to resolve parental complaints. In addition, participants supply biographical information that is used in suggesting appropriate developmental suggestions. Each assessment center participant receives a report describing his or her strengths and improvement needs in each of the nine skill dimensions measured, as well as detailed suggestions for improvement and growth. Skill dimension measured are:
- Setting Instructional Direction
- Teamwork
- Sensitivity
- Development of Others
- Judgment
- Results Orientation
- Organizational Ability
- Oral Communication
- Written Communication
Virginia Standard(s) Addressed
The Assessment Center, a National Association of Secondary School Principals model, is correlated with all ISLLC standards.Program Goals and Objectives
By the end of this program, the participant will receive a diagnostic assessment report which details the presence and strength of nine leadership skills that contribute to effective leadership. This report can be used for planning individualized personal and professional development and career goals.Program Format
- During the Assessment Center, trained assessors observe participants as they engage in a series of authentic, interrelated activities that simulate the work of a school principal.
- Assessors share observations, integrate data, reach consensus, and write an assessment report on each participant's strengths and improvement needs in the nine skill dimensions.
- The center director reviews the performance report with each participant in a developmental feedback session.
Target Audience
The Assessment Center is designed for practicing principals as well as aspiring principals.Self-Selection and/or Identification Through School Division
Yes/yes.Duration of Program
The Assessment Center is a half-day experience with a feedback session at a later date.Outcomes Measured
Nine skill dimensions for effective leadership are measured.Program Evaluation
The Assessment Center process generates a profile of a participants leadership strengths and improvement needs to be used as a diagnostic tool for professional growth.Contact Information
Elizabeth Williams
Director, Assessment Center
Old Dominion University
757-683-3248
ewilliam@odu.edu