Incorporating a Growth Mindset: Leadership in Education and Technology

What I Have Learned About Leadership

Leadership is not just about authority or making decisions; it is about inspiring, guiding, and creating a space where people feel empowered to grow and reach their full potential. As a teacher, I’ve come to realize that education leadership is about more than just delivering lessons, it's about fostering curiosity, resilience, and a love for learning in every student.

One of the most powerful lessons I’ve learned about leadership is the importance of cultivating a growth mindset. A growth mindset fosters adaptability, perseverance, and the ability to view challenges as opportunities for learning. I see this in my classroom every day, especially when working with students on reading and writing. Some students struggle with literacy and feel discouraged, believing they are simply “not good at it.” My role as a leader in their learning journey is to show them that improvement is possible with effort and persistence.

Leadership is fundamentally about uniting people through shared values and a common vision. In education, this goes beyond personal growth; it involves cultivating a classroom community where students support and inspire each other. Caulfield (2013) emphasizes that effective leadership fosters these connections, creating an environment where collaboration thrives. One of my most rewarding experiences was witnessing a struggling writer gain confidence after engaging in peer review sessions, where classmates provided constructive feedback. This process not only enhanced their writing skills but also nurtured a culture of collaboration and encouragement.

Traditional learning environments often restrict students' autonomy and creativity, limiting their ability to take ownership of their learning. Harapnuik (2023) highlights the importance of embracing the COVA+CSLE model, which prioritizes choice, ownership, voice, and authentic learning experiences. In my classroom, I apply this approach by allowing students the freedom to choose books that interest them, write about topics they are passionate about, and present their work in creative ways that showcase their unique voices.

The Kind of Leader I Aspire to Be and My Leadership Style

I aspire to be a leader who empowers, inspires, and nurtures confidence in my students. My leadership approach aligns most with democratic and transformational leadership. As Keiser University (2023) explains, democratic leadership encourages participation and shared decision-making. I see this play out when I involve students in setting classroom norms or allowing them to have a say in how we structure our reading and writing activities. When students feel that their voices matter, they become more engaged and take greater responsibility for their learning.

Transformational leadership, as described in the video 10 Most Common Types of Leadership Styles (With Real-World Examples) (YouTube, 2023), involves inspiring and motivating individuals to grow beyond their perceived limits. I have witnessed this firsthand when students surprise themselves with their progress. I once had a student who was convinced he would never be a strong writer. Through encouragement, tailored feedback, and celebrating small wins, he went from dreading writing assignments to proudly sharing his stories with the class. By blending these leadership styles with the principles of the COVA+CSLE model (Harapnuik, 2023), I aim to cultivate a dynamic, student-centered learning environment where students see themselves as capable, independent thinkers and lifelong learners.

Applying Leadership Skills to Technology in the Workplace

Technology is a powerful tool in education, but its effectiveness depends on how it is integrated into learning experiences. As a leader in my classroom, I focus on using technology to enhance student engagement, personalize learning, and foster collaboration. Here are some ways I bring leadership and technology together:

Personalizing Learning Through Technology One of my favorite ways to support students in reading and writing is by using digital platforms that cater to individual needs. Harapnuik (2023) emphasizes the importance of choice and ownership in learning, which is why I incorporate tools like Google Classroom, Kahoot, and Nearpod. These platforms allow students to engage with content at their own pace, providing immediate feedback and making learning more interactive. For struggling readers, I use apps that offer text-to-speech features and interactive comprehension activities, helping them build confidence and skills in a way that suits their learning style.

Fostering Collaboration and Innovation Writing is not just an individual activity—it thrives in a community. By integrating tools like Padlet, Flipgrid, and Google Docs, I encourage students to collaborate, provide peer feedback, and co-create stories. I remember a time when a student who was hesitant to share his work found his voice through a collaborative storytelling project on Google Docs. Seeing his classmates respond with excitement and encouragement transformed his perception of himself as a writer.

Creating Modern and Innovative Learning Spaces: Learning spaces should be dynamic and engaging. According to EdTech Magazine (2022), classrooms that integrate digital tools enhance student participation and collaboration. I have worked on redesigning my classroom layout to include flexible seating and stations equipped with tablets and interactive whiteboards. This setup allows students to move freely, engage with different resources, and take charge of their learning experience. It’s incredible to see how simply changing the environment can spark creativity and enthusiasm.

Overcoming Barriers to Technology Integration Not every educator feels comfortable with technology, and that can be a challenge. I take on the role of a mentor by leading professional development sessions where I help colleagues integrate digital tools into their teaching. According to EDUCAUSE (2024), schools that prioritize adaptability and innovation are better positioned to support student engagement and success. I’ve found that even small changes—like demonstrating how to use Google Slides for interactive storytelling—can make a big difference in building confidence among teachers and students alike.

Leadership in education is about more than just guiding students through curriculum—it’s about inspiring them to believe in their potential, take ownership of their learning, and embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. As a democratic and transformational leader, I strive to create a learning environment that is inclusive, engaging, and innovative. By leveraging technology effectively, I can provide personalized learning experiences, encourage collaboration, and prepare students for a future where adaptability and critical thinking are key. Every day in the classroom, I see leadership not as a position of authority, but as an opportunity to empower my students to become confident, lifelong learners.

References

Caulfield, J. (2013). Why does leadership exist? Journal of Leadership Education, 12(1), 274-281. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/333436655

EDUCAUSE. (2024). 2024 EDUCAUSE Horizon Report: Teaching and Learning Edition. EDUCAUSE Publications. https://library.educause.edu/resources/2024/5/2024-educause-horizon-report-teaching-and-learning-edition

Harapnuik, D. (2023). COVA+CSLE mindset vs. traditional learning. Retrieved from https://www.harapnuik.org/?page_id=7007

Keiser University. (2023). Leadership styles in education: Nine ways educators guide talent. https://www.keiseruniversity.edu/leadership-styles-in-education-nine-ways-educators-guide-talent/

YouTube. (2023). 10 most common types of leadership styles (with real-world examples). [Video]. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NY82yptNp5E

EdTech Magazine. (2022). Benefits and considerations for creating modern innovative learning spaces in schools. https://edtechmagazine.com/k12/article/2022/03/benefits-and-considerations-creating-modern-innovative-learning-spaces-schools