Assignment-
Aim: This assessment requires students to conduct primary research on a contemporary leader. This student-driven content will form the basis of analysis and discussion, allowing students to explore first-hand the issues contemporary leaders are faced with. They are asked to draw on their understanding of the theories of leadership to contrast and explain ideas and practices. Students are challenged to present the interview in a style that is informative, concise, instructive and interesting. The presentation allows students to share their knowledge with others and broadens the overall understanding of today's leadership issues. Reflective writing allows the students to gain greater self-awareness and promote continual learning.
Assessment brief: Please note that the following assessment is made up of three parts.
Part A: Interview
Students must individually interview a leader of their choice. Consent form (see attached) and details of the interview must be submitted to your tutor for approval by the due date. This gives you the opportunity to outline your intention and incorporate suggestions from your tutor in the interview. Conduct the interview once approval is given by the tutor.
Find a leader of an organisation you are familiar with (ie, work, sporting club, church, association). Seek permission from that person to conduct a short 10 min interview. The person needs to sign on the consent form (see attached) and the consent form must be submitted by due date, together with the details of the outline. The interview must be recorded in some capacity (ie, video, audio, or detailed email transcript).
The interview should focus on the following key topics:
-Perceived differences between leadership and management
-How organisational culture has impacted on the person's leadership style
-What leadership strategies are most effective in creating sustainable commitment from others
-What are the key leadership challenges they expect to face within the immediate and longer-term future
Part B - Presentation
You are required to present your interview to the tutorial group. The style of presentation will be determined by how you choose to record the interview (ie: if you videoed the interview, you can play excerpts from the video; if you have an email transcript of
responses, you must present the key discussion points to the tutorial group).
In addition to the interview, you are required to present a further 10 mins of discussion, comparing the content of your interview with
established theories of leadership.
-What are the key differences between the reality of what the leader you interviewed faces and what theories suggest?
-What do you see as the key strengths of the leader you interviewed (you must draw on theories to explain your reasoning)?
-Thinking of your own personal reflection, what have you learnt about leadership from the person you interviewed?
Part C - Reflective Writing
You are required to reflect on the process of completing the assessment. Share with the tutor what you have learnt and reflect on
the areas which you would improve if you were given a chance to redo the assessment.