The Intuitive Dimensions of Administrative Decision Making

There is a growing discrepancy between how principals are being taught to make decisions and how decisions are actually made on the job. Many of the most challenging problems are solved through intuition, not extensive analysis. The authors, with over 50 years of combined experience as principals and superintendents, provide educational leaders with a better understanding of how intuitive decision-making may be effectively assessed, used, and enhanced as a powerful cognitive tool for resolving complex administrative problems.

Includes:
· An in-depth examination of how intuition corresponds with rational/analytical approaches to complex problem solving and decision-making in schools.
· A thorough investigation into the intuitive decision-making experiences of 90 California public school principals who participated in an empirical research study developed by the authors.
· A comprehensive synthesis of ideas and suggestions about how school leaders can access and develop their intuitive decision-making skills.

For school administrators, professors, and trainers of educational administration, or anyone interested in the dynamics of intuitive decision-making in complex public or private organizations.

Stephen H. Davis is an associate professor (Teaching) of Educational Leadership and Director of the Prospective Principals Program at the Stanford University School of Education. He has also served as an Associate Professor of Educational Administration at the University of the Pacific, a school district superintendent, director of personnel, high school principal, high school dean, and high school teacher.

Patricia B. Davis is currently the superintendent of the Ross Valley School District in Marin County, California. During her 30 years in public education, Mrs. Davis has been a superintendent in two school districts, an assistant superintendent, a deputy director of instruction, an elementary school principal, a district staff development coordinator, an elementary teacher, and a learning support faculty member with CalStateTEACH.