Digital Leadership by Eric Sheninger

Digital Leadership by Eric Sheninger

Education is simultaneously changing at an alarming rate and at the same time staying the same. In Digital Leadership, Eric Sheninger talks about how leaders need to taking advantage of the tools at our disposal to help guide the change. He outlines how modern technology, namely Web 2.0 tools, can benefit all people invested in technology and education. I was initially concerned that since technology is changing so quickly this resource would be highlighting strategies that are no longer available. I was wrong on that account as his underlying message is rooted in the theory behind why you would use different tools rather that explaining how to use the tools. He does mention some very specific tools such as: Remind, Twitter, Google Apps and Smart Boards, but also explains how those tools can be used to help you as a leader. If a new tool comes along that allows you to have more success you can easily substitute in the new tool while still continuing to move your school forward.

What I really enjoyed about this book was the way Eric laid out the way a leader within a school or school district can go about changing the leadership and culture in their reach. His Seven Pillars of Digital Leadership clearly outline the different areas that need to be addressed in order to become a digital leader. Each Pillar is clearly outlined with not only theory, but practical examples. Each Pillar can also be extended to apply to people at all levels in the organization.

I am currently exploring some ideas that I would like to implement including having my students all have Twitter accounts, live streaming presentations for parents, encouraging meetings through Skype to busy parents, and texting parents to stay informed. I have many more that are still percolating. 

As a teacher who currently has no aspirations of moving into administration, I found this book a riveting read and have found multiple ideas to help me become a digital leader within my school, including starting this blog to highlight professional reading I am doing. This is also a resource that I will be putting prominently on my shelf to aid me in the future and to help build my case as I move forward with my 21st Century classroom.

Great read, great ideas!

Have a good day,

James