Professional blog

As I embark on implementing my capstone, my exploration of leadership theories, models, and concepts has been invaluable. In particular, the comparison of Transformational Leadership and Servant Leadership, the application of the Systems Leadership Model, and the impact of the Contingency Theory have been the most helpful. Each of these theories has shaped my understanding of the implementation of the capstone, and I have found that my outlook has changed significantly since my initial brainstorming and outline.

Transformational and Servant Leadership have been studied extensively in recent years, particularly in regards to their impact on the implementation of the capstone. According to P Burawat in the International Journal of Quality & Reliability Management (2019), Transformational Leadership is a “process of a leader inspiring and motivating followers to enact change” (p. 3). This type of leadership is focused on leading by example and inspiring others to be the best they can be. On the other hand, Servant Leadership is focused more on the leader serving their followers and using their influence to bring out the best in each individual. It is based on the idea that leaders should always be thinking of ways to help their followers and to make sure they have the resources and guidance needed to be successful. Both of these styles of leadership are beneficial for the implementation of the capstone, as they both focus on empowering and inspiring others. Transformational Leadership can help to motivate and encourage followers to take risks and push the boundaries, while Servant Leadership can help to provide followers with the guidance and resources needed to reach their goals. It is essential to consider both of these styles of leadership when looking to effectively implement the capstone.

The Systems Leadership Model (SLM) has been recently explored as a potential approach to the capstone project. Goertzen, McRay, and Klaus (2016) evaluated the potential benefits of applying the SLM to the capstone, as well as the potential challenges. They found that the SLM could increase the complexity of the project, but also enable a greater depth of learning. The SLM could also help to create more meaningful and impactful projects, as well as foster collaboration among the students. On the other hand, they note that the SLM could also cause difficulties in terms of the logistics of such a complex project, and the increased difficulty of managing the project. Furthermore, they point out that the SLM may be difficult to learn and apply, and the students may need additional training and guidance. In conclusion, the Systems Leadership Model has many potential benefits and challenges when applied to the capstone project. It is important to carefully consider the implications before choosing to implement the SLM in a capstone project.

The Contingency Theory has been a useful tool in understanding how different factors can affect the implementation of capstone projects. According to Wadongo and Abdel-Kader (2014), the Contingency Theory can be used to identify the areas of importance when it comes to the implementation of a capstone project. This approach looks at the different variables that can influence the implementation of a capstone project, such as the environment, resources, and even the competence of the project team. By looking at these variables, it can be determined which factors are necessary for the successful implementation of a capstone project. Additionally, the Contingency Theory can also be used to evaluate how the implementation of the project changes from the original outline. By looking at the different variables mentioned above, it can be determined if the implementation of the capstone project deviates from the original plan. This way, the Contingency Theory can be used to ensure that the capstone project is implemented according to the original plan. Thus, the Contingency Theory can be a useful tool in evaluating the impact of the implementation of a capstone project on its original outline.

Overall, engaging with a variety of leadership theories, models and concepts has allowed me to think critically and deliberately about my capstone project. At the beginning of my program, I chose the systems theory as the most helpful concept; however, as I am now implementing this project, I have found the concept of contextual intelligence to be the most useful. Understanding the contextual depth of my situation and making decisions accordingly has allowed me to better navigate the decision-making process, ensuring I’m taking the best possible approach in the situation. This change in my initial planning has further broadened my understanding of the intricacies of leadership and how to develop effective strategies.

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