Assignment 8615
Assignment 8615
In today's business world, being a manager involves four key functions: planning, organizing,
leading, and controlling. These functions are performed by managers in any industry or level of
management. Although they may differ from first-tier to CEO, mastering these functions can
help overcome challenges in any business. By mastering these functions, one can conquer nearly
any business challenge and improve their overall performance.
Management academics simplified Fayol's duties by the late 20th century and incorporated them
into the well-recognized planning, organizing, leading, and controlling (POLC) framework:
Peter Drucker: Stressed the value of control and planning in accomplishing corporate goals.
The functions were extended by contemporary theorists in order to accommodate globalization,
evolving workplaces, and technology breakthrough.
i. Planning
A manager's primary role is to develop a plan to achieve company goals and objectives, which
involves allocating resources, delegating responsibilities, setting realistic timelines, and
maintaining a clear vision of the company's aims. This involves working independently to
determine responsibilities, setting priority levels, and creating timelines. Communication is also
crucial, as managers meet with company leadership to discuss short and long-term goals,
communicate project details, and check-in periodically to ensure individual objectives are met on
time. This continuous monitoring and adjustment of plans is essential for maintaining a clear
understanding of the company's objectives.
ii. Organizing
A manager's organizational skills are crucial for ensuring a company or department runs
smoothly. They establish internal processes, structures, and identify employees or teams best
suited for specific tasks. Organization goes beyond delegating tasks and ensuring employees
have what they need. Managers must also be able to reorganize in response to new challenges,
such as adjusting project timelines, allocating tasks, or altering team structures and roles in
response to company growth. This involves not only efficient task delegation but also adapting to
new challenges.
iii. Controling
Managers should be confident in commanding their team's tasks and handling significant
changes or challenges. They should project a strong sense of direction and leadership when
setting goals and communicating new processes, products, services, or internal policies.
Leadership can manifest in various ways, such as recognizing employee needs, handling
conflicts fairly, and modeling supportive, encouraging, and motivational qualities even in small
personal interactions.
iv. Leading
Managers must consistently monitor employee performance, work quality, and project efficiency
to ensure a company's success. Quality control in management ensures the business's ultimate
goals are met and allows for necessary changes when necessary. This ensures the company's
overall efficiency and reliability.
Planning
Explanation Example
Planning involves setting goals, determining A school planning to improve student
strategies, and establishing procedures to outcomes may introduce a new STEM
achieve desired outcomes. Educational curriculum and allocate funds for teacher
institutions use strategic planning to set long- training and lab equipment.
term goals, curriculum development to plan
courses and teaching strategies, and resource
allocation for budgets, facilities, and
technological upgrades.
Organizing
Implementation Example
In order to accomplish the goals, organizing An educational institution organizes a team to
entails setting up people, projects, and manage annual examinations, including
resources. assigning roles for paper setting, invigilation,
Organizing Departments: Creating divisions and result compilation.
for extracurricular activities, administration,
Resource management is the process of
and academics.
making sure labs, libraries, and classrooms
Role Assignment: Determining the particular
are properly furnished and used.
duties of coordinators, teachers, and support
personnel.
Leading
Implementation Example
Leading involves inspiring and guiding staff A principal conducting regular meetings to
and students to achieve institutional goals. encourage teachers, share success stories, and
Leaders provide professional development address challenges demonstrates effective
opportunities, recognize achievements, and leadership.
foster collaboration. They act as role models,
promoting discipline and academic
excellence. Leadership is essential in handling
challenges and emergencies.
Controlling
Implementation Example
Controlling ensures the institution's activities A university analyzing student dropout rates
align with its goals by monitoring and introducing counseling services or
performance and making necessary academic support to address the issue.
adjustments. Implementation involves
evaluation systems, policy enforcement, and
continuous improvement, involving
assessments, teacher appraisals, and student
feedback to measure performance and ensure
adherence to policies.
Concluding remarks
Management functions, including planning, organizing, leading, and controlling, are crucial for
effective organizational operations. They provide a structured approach to achieving goals,
ensuring efficient resource use, and cohesive teamwork. Planning sets the stage for success,
while organizing provides a framework for seamless implementation. Leadership motivates and
inspires individuals, fostering collaboration, addressing challenges, and building a culture of trust
and accountability. This human-centric approach ensures long-term growth and innovation.
Controlling maintains alignment between actions and objectives, enabling organizations to
measure performance, identify deviations, and implement corrective measures. These functions
create a dynamic cycle that adapts to challenges and opportunities, making them indispensable
for sustaining success in any field.
2) Discuss the relevance of Gantt charts in educational project management. How can
Gantt charts aid in visualizing and planning educational initiatives, and what benefits
do they offer in terms of time management and resource allocation?
Gantt charts are a crucial tool in educational project management, as they aid in visualizing and
planning educational initiatives. They provide a visual representation of the project timeline,
including tasks, milestones, and dependencies, enabling effective planning and organization.
Gantt charts also aid in time management by breaking down the project into specific tasks with
corresponding timeframes, identifying critical paths, setting realistic deadlines, and monitoring
progress. They also facilitate resource allocation by clearly outlining tasks and their respective
timelines, preventing overallocation or underutilization of resources, and ensuring the project
stays within budget. In essence, Gantt charts play a vital role in educational project management
by providing a visual roadmap for planning, managing time effectively, and allocating resources
efficiently, ultimately contributing to the successful implementation of educational initiatives.
In educational project management, Gantt charts are essential tools because they provide a
structured and transparent method for organizing, planning, and carrying out complicated
projects. From redesigning curricula and training programs for teachers to introducing new
technologies and organizing events, educational institutions frequently manage a wide range of
projects. Careful planning, resource allocation, and time management are necessary for
managing these projects. By giving tasks, deadlines, and dependencies a visual representation,
Gantt charts aid in the accomplishment of these objectives. They act as a project manager's road
map, making sure that every stage of the procedure is clear and in line with the main goals.
Definition of Gant charts
One popular graphical representation of a project schedule is a Gantt chart. This kind of bar chart
displays the beginning and ending dates of the many components of a project, including
planning, dependencies, and resources.
Concept given by Henry Gantt
In addition to being a management consultant and social scientist, Henry Gantt had a mechanical
engineering degree. He developed strategies to improve the efficiency and productivity of
businesses and their employees while working in the field of scientific management. In order to
assist managers in understanding the development of their workforce and ensuring that
assignments were completed on time, he developed the Gantt chart in the 1910s.
Need of Gantt chart
A Gantt chart is a visual representation of a project's timeline, consisting of three key
components: activities or tasks running along the y axis, milestones or progress stages indicated
along the x axis, and progress bars. These horizontal bars indicate the progress of each task at
any given point. A Gantt chart is recommended for project managers to help organize tasks
within the project by showing the start and end dates of resources and planning.
Main points of Gant charts
One tool for planning, organizing, and keeping track of certain activities and resources in
a project is a Gantt chart.
It has a list of tasks with bars showing the status of each activity.
The project timeline, which might include task sequences, duration, and the start and
finish dates for each task, is represented by horizontal bars of varying lengths.
It is the project management chart that is most frequently used.
In heavy industries, Gantt charts are used for software development, the construction of
various goods and services, and projects like building bridges, roads, and dams.
A popular tool for project management, the Gantt chart aids in organizing and outlining the order
in which activities must be completed. The project timeline, task sequences, duration, and
completion dates are shown by horizontal bars in a typical presentation. The length of the bar
corresponds to the amount of time required to do a task. The project tasks are shown on the
vertical axis. Project status and completion rate are communicated, specific activities and
resources are scheduled, managed, and tracked, and the project stays on course with the help of
the Gantt chart. It is a common tool that facilitates communication between the project
management and technical sectors.
Explanation of Gant chart with Example
Company A is a company tasked with installing new software on a large investment bank's
servers. To manage the project, they have created a Gantt chart to outline the tasks, milestones,
and completion timeline. The tasks include research, software selection, testing, and installation.
The project's duration is 40 days, with each task taking 10 days. The software selection is a
critical milestone. The Gantt chart displays the start and end dates, duration, and milestones as
horizontal bars, along with the percentage of work completed for each task. This helps Company
A map out the tasks along a timeline to reach full completion in 40 days.
Uses of Gant Chart
Gantt charts make it easier to see how far along different projects and activities that are
happening concurrently inside an organization have come. Management uses them to plan and
schedule these kinds of projects in order to distribute resources as efficiently as possible and to
ensure that the most critical projects are completed before the less important ones start.
Visualization and Planning Benefits
Gantt charts are a useful tool in educational project management for their ability to facilitate
visualization and planning. They present tasks in a timeline-based format, making it easier for
stakeholders to understand the sequence of activities, their duration, and interdependencies. For
instance, in developing a new curriculum, tasks like researching standards, drafting syllabi,
obtaining approvals, and training teachers can be plotted on a Gantt chart. The chart also helps
project managers identify critical milestones and deadlines, ensuring the project stays on track.
For example, in organizing a science fair, milestones like booking a venue, finalizing participant
lists, and setting up exhibits can be highlighted. Gantt charts provide a high-level overview that
aids in strategic planning and day-to-day task management.
Time Management Advantages
Gantt charts are a valuable tool for effective time management in educational projects. They
offer a structured framework for scheduling tasks, allowing project managers to realistically
allocate time for each activity and ensure deadlines are achievable. For instance, in a teacher
training program, Gantt charts can schedule sessions over several weeks, ensuring trainers,
venues, and materials are available. They also set clear start and end dates for each task,
preventing delays and keeping the project on schedule. Gantt charts also help identify potential
bottlenecks and overlap areas, allowing for timely adjustments to avoid conflicts. Furthermore,
they can be updated in real-time to reflect project changes, making them particularly useful in
dynamic educational environments.
Resource Allocation Benefits
Gantt charts are useful tools for time management and optimizing resource allocation in
educational projects. They help project managers visualize tasks and timelines, determining the
necessary resources at each stage. For instance, they can schedule training sessions for teachers
and time procurement tasks to align with installation and training phases. Gantt charts also
prevent overallocation or underutilization of resources by highlighting imbalances in tasks,
allowing for redistribution to avoid overburdening individuals. This efficient use of resources
contributes to the smooth execution of educational projects and minimizes unnecessary expenses.
Collaboration and Communication
Gantt charts also help stakeholders in educational initiatives collaborate and communicate more
effectively. They make sure that everyone is on the same page by giving a clear and shared
picture of the project, including instructors, administrators, outside consultants, and support
personnel. The chart may be used by team members to monitor their progress, comprehend their
responsibilities, and plan for future work. The Gantt chart is updated often to maintain
accountability and to keep all stakeholders updated on changes.
For instance, the Gantt chart may be used as a primary point of reference for all participants in a
school-wide campaign to increase digital literacy. Administrators can keep an eye on general
progress, IT personnel can be ready for system updates, and teachers can know when they are
scheduled for training sessions.
Concluding remarks
To sum up, Gantt charts are effective instruments that greatly improve the administration of
educational programs. They are extremely useful for organizing and planning complicated
projects because of their capacity to visualize tasks, deadlines, and dependencies. Gantt charts
assist educational institutions in carrying out projects effectively and achieving desired results by
encouraging efficient time management and resource allocation. Furthermore, their function in
promoting cooperation and communication guarantees that all parties involved stay on the same
page and actively involved throughout the project's duration. Gantt charts offer the structure and
clarity required to effectively negotiate the difficulties of educational project management,
whether they are used for curriculum creation, teacher training, or event planning.
3) Elaborate on how Program Evaluation and Review Technique (PERT) can be utilized
in educational management for planning and controlling complex educational projects.
Provide an example to illustrate its application in an educational context.
Utilizing PERT in Educational Management
A project management tool called the Program Evaluation and Review Technique (PERT) was
created to plan and oversee complicated projects with an emphasis on critical route
identification, work scheduling, and time estimation. PERT is very helpful in educational
administration as big projects frequently call for cooperation from several stakeholders and
stringent deadline observance. Educational institutions may guarantee effective resource use,
reduce delays, and accomplish their objectives with PERT.
Key Elements of PERT
The network diagram, tasks, and time estimations are the three primary pillars of PERT. The
particular actions necessary to finish a project are represented by tasks. Three different time
estimate categories are allocated to each task: pessimistic (longest time), most probable
(anticipated time), and optimistic (shortest time). The anticipated time for each activity is
determined using these estimates. Project managers can identify the critical path—the set of tasks
that establishes the project's minimum completion time—by using the network diagram, which
graphically depicts the order and dependencies of tasks.
Introduction of Program Evaluation Review Technique (PERT) Chart:
A Program Evaluation Review Technique (PERT) chart is a project management tool that
provides a graphical representation of a project's timeline, displaying all necessary tasks. It was
first created by the U.S. Navy's Special Projects Office in the 1950s to guide the Polaris nuclear
submarine project. PERT charts use circles or rectangles called nodes to represent project events
or milestones, linked by vectors or lines that represent tasks and their dependencies. They enable
managers to evaluate the time and resources needed to manage a project.
Working of Program Evaluation Review Technique (PERT) Chart:
Project events or milestones are represented by nodes, which are circles or rectangles on a PERT
chart. A variety of software programs may be used to create a chart. This includes basic
programs like Microsoft Excel or even specialized computer applications developed to produce
PERT charts.2.
The PERT chart's nodes are connected by lines or vectors that stand for different jobs. Dependent
tasks are those that need to be done a certain way. Task No. 1 must be finished before work on
Task No. 2 may start, for instance, if a PERT chart shows an arrow connecting Task No. 1 and
Task No. 2. One Parallel jobs are those that are on distinct task lines within a project but are at
the same level of development.
PERT may be very helpful for educational tasks like creating new curriculum, putting
technological programs into place, or planning international conferences. To prevent delays and
guarantee success, these projects frequently entail a large number of interdependent activities
that need to be efficiently organized.
Conducting Selecting the LMS System Staff Training Pilot Testing
Needs Vendor Installation
Assessment
Applications
Identifying the Researching Installing the Training faculty Running a
institution's options, evaluating software and and administrative pilot
requirements for proposals, and ensuring staff to use the program to
the LMS. finalizing the compatibility LMS effectively. identify
vendor. with existing potential
infrastructure. issues.
Making the PERT Diagram
The university maps out the tasks and their relationships in a network diagram using PERT. For
example, the successful completion of pilot testing is a prerequisite for full deployment, and staff
training cannot start until the system is deployed. Time estimates are given to each activity based
on prior experience and expert feedback. For instance:
Optimistic (2 weeks), Most Likely (3 weeks), and Pessimistic (5 weeks) needs assessments
The three types of vendors are pessimistic (8 weeks), most likely (6 weeks), and optimistic (4
weeks). Three weeks for optimistic, four weeks for most likely, and six weeks for pessimistic
system installation.
Concluding Remarks
One effective method for organizing and managing intricate educational initiatives is the
Program Evaluation and Review Technique (PERT). PERT assists educational institutions in
effectively achieving their objectives by dividing projects into manageable tasks, evaluating time
needs, and identifying the essential route. PERT may be used to guarantee timely and successful
project completion, as demonstrated by the example of deploying a new LMS. Despite its
difficulties, PERT is a tremendous tool for educational administration since it improves planning
precision, decision-making, and resource allocation. Educational leaders may successfully
negotiate the challenges of contemporary projects and provide their institutions with excellent
results by utilizing PERT.
4) Discuss the role of operational decision-making in the day-to-day functioning of
educational institutions. Provide examples of operational decisions that educational
managers might need to make and explain how these decisions impact the overall
effectiveness and efficiency of the institution.
Operational Decision-Making's Function in Educational Establishments
Operational decision-making, which focuses on short-term, regular, and particular decisions that
directly affect the institution's operational efficiency, is essential to the daily operations of
educational institutions. These choices guarantee that educational establishments function
efficiently, achieve short-term goals, and preserve a setting that is favorable for instruction and
learning. Typically, operational choices deal with matters like staff management, scheduling,
resource distribution, and student services. Whether an organization is a government agency, a
corporation, or even a nonprofit, operational choices are at its core. They are necessary to
guarantee these entities' appropriate day-to-day operation. However, what is an operational
choice exactly? This article explains the principles of operational decision-making and how
transition management may play a significant role in it.
Concept of operational Decision
Managers of a company make operational decisions to control day-to-day operations and internal
procedures. They are concentrated on finishing assignments and resolving pressing issues. Not to
be confused with strategic choices that center on the organization's long-term goals and general
course. Because they may preserve stability, control resources, and guarantee overall business
success, operational choices help a firm function smoothly on a daily basis. These choices aid in
addressing day-to-day difficulties, optimizing internal procedures, and adapting to shifting
consumer demands.
Examining the decision-making hierarchy
In school administration, there is no one-size-fits-all method for making decisions. It is a multi-
layered phenomenon, with decisions at different levels of the hierarchy having distinct
characteristics and ramifications. We will examine the strategic, tactical, and operational levels
of decision-making in order to understand this framework.
Making strategic decisions: Charting the course
The strategic level is the highest level of decision-making in education. These choices, which are
frequently made by senior executives and legislators, establish an institution's long-term course.
They establish the goals and policies, have a wide-ranging impact on the entire company, and are
comprehensive. Plans for expansion, budgetary allotments, and curricular revisions are a few
examples.
Long-term effects: The institution's future is impacted by strategic choices for a long
time. High-stakes decisions require careful consideration and foresight since they present
both substantial dangers and possibilities.
Comprehensive consultation: Usually, a range of stakeholders, including the community,
school boards, and government agencies, provide input on these choices.
Operational decision-making has a significant impact on the overall effectiveness and efficiency
of educational institutions:
Actionable feedback is crucial for educators to improve their teaching methods and create a more
effective learning experience for students. It should be specific, clear, and practical, addressing
specific actions, behaviors, or outcomes. It should avoid vague or general statements and provide
precise details about what was done well or what needs improvement.
Delivering feedback respectfully and constructively is key to supporting the teacher's growth and
improvement. Examples of effective feedback include using real-life examples in lessons,
providing additional practice exercises, addressing off-topic conversations, incorporating
interactive activities, and using rubrics for transparent grading criteria.
Feedback should focus on the behavior, not the person, and open conversations by stating the
behavior or instructional move observed. This model helps avoid sounding accusatory and
focusing on behaviors instead of assumed interpretations. Feedback fosters a culture of
collaboration and open communication among teachers, where they learn from each other's
successes and challenges. This collaborative atmosphere fuels professional growth and the
exchange of innovative teaching strategies.
6. Be specific
To make professional development for teachers more relevant, ask for their suggestions, provide
different options for workshops or courses, and keep the topic simple. If possible, focus on depth
rather than breadth, ensuring teachers have all the necessary information to apply in the
classroom. Ask for feedback at the end of the session to continue the cycle and gather
information on what worked, what didn't, what they would change, and what they'd like to learn
more about next time.
To make teacher professional development more specific, use tools like Google Forms to collect
information on what teachers want to learn and feedback on past sessions. Divide teachers into
groups based on grade level or subject area, such as physics teachers brainstorming ways to
apply inquiry-based learning consistently within their department. Ensure the topic aligns with
the school's overall educational goals, as Rita Platt, a National Board-Certified teacher, says. Pair
teachers up to develop an interdisciplinary teaching activity, allowing them to use out-of-the-box
thinking to create a dynamic learning experience for their students. This approach ensures that
teachers feel empowered and empowered to help their students succeed, as they know what their
classrooms need but lack the tools and funding they need.
7. Making teaching interesting
Teachers often dislike being treated like students, as they are educated professionals aiming to
develop their skills. A lack of engagement can have a significant impact on the classroom and
negatively affect teachers. To ensure meaningful impact, teachers should use active learning
techniques and research opportunities for service learning. Teachers learn differently and
respond differently to different methods, such as auditory, kinesthetic, written, or visual. Diana
Laufenberg recommends creating different entry points for different learners, similar to a
differentiated classroom. A discussion on blended learning can include hands-on learners
demoing relevant software, collaborative brainstorming for subject-specific technology
introduction, and giving a teacher who has tried blended learning techniques an opportunity to
share their successes and challenges.
8. Progressive classroom environment
Professional development (PD) sessions have a significant impact on both immediate and long-
term classroom outcomes. A 2021 systematic review found that teaching quality is closely linked
to student outcomes and educational equality. Certain forms of PD have been associated with
enduring impacts on teacher practices and student achievement. Teachers need continuous
learning and support to implement new strategies and ideas, as this can lead to unproductive use
of time and resources. Encouraging teachers to approach you with questions or concerns and
using student and teacher performance data to make informed decisions about future areas of
focus and strategies to enhance student learning is crucial. EdTech software is a great way to
collect actionable data on student achievement and understanding, and subject-specific EdTech
platforms provide teachers with the tools to confidently use student data to improve their
classroom teaching. Prodigy Math, a free, standards-aligned math game, provides real-time data
and powerful reports that provide valuable insights into classroom techniques that encourage
student success and areas for improvement.
9. Fruitful teaching method
In 2015, The New Teacher Project found that despite spending an average of $18,000 per teacher
annually, only 30% of teachers noticeably improved. To control the cost of professional
development, schools and districts can maximize time spent on it by deepening subject
knowledge, breaking up learning during the school day, starting peer coaching activities, and
providing effective feedback. Deepening subject knowledge is crucial for teachers to illustrate
how lesson content is being used outside the classroom, especially in middle and high school.
Challenge teachers to create lesson content on current trends, advancements in medicine, or the
latest breakthroughs in physics. Breaking up learning during the school day allows teachers to
apply key takeaways immediately. Starting peer coaching activities allows teachers to observe
their colleagues in the classroom and collaborate on improving their lessons. Providing effective
and actionable feedback helps teachers identify areas for improvement.
A system of "learning teams" can drive individual and collective professional learning by
analyzing student data, identifying learning gaps, and addressing overarching issues. Organizing
educators into learning teams based on proximity to issues and assigning each a topic with a goal
can help teachers improve their teaching strategies.
10. Personalize teacher learning with a Professional Development Plan
Personalized learning is beneficial for both students and teachers. A Professional Development
Plan outlines short-term and long-term learning goals for educators, based on factors such as
subject, age range, current position, future goals, and necessary learning. Teachers should be
challenged to continuously learn and develop their professional capacities, ensuring they meet
school standards. The SMART goal system can be used to set achievable goals, which should be
Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Timely. Teachers should be tracked monthly and
yearly to monitor progress and improvement. Additionally, teachers should be provided with
necessary resources such as courses, certification classes, and emotional support to help them
learn new classroom techniques.
Concluding Remarks
In educational administration, constructive criticism and coaching are essential for fostering
teachers' professional growth and raising the standard of instruction. These methods help
instructors develop and adjust to changing educational demands by recognizing their strengths,
resolving their flaws, and offering practical support. Students have a more comprehensive and
successful educational experience, making them the ultimate beneficiaries. By encouraging a
culture of excellence and ongoing development, a dedication to coaching and feedback is an
investment in the institution's future.
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