Student Leadership Development Through General Classroom Activities

tudent leadership enhancement involves giving students opportunities to practice leadership skills in a supportive learning environment. It is contended that leadership can be systematically developed so that students are more proficient in: project planning; reflection; problem solving; team building; decision making; goal setting; time management; project management and resource allocation; effective communication and networking; conflict resolution; diversity awareness; and self-confidence. These 12 skills are also linked to the four academic enabling skills of: interpersonal relationships; motivation; study skills; and engagement. Using this framework it is argued that student leadership can be embedded within the school curriculum. Two sample lessons illustrate this procedure, which is being introduced into a Brisbane high school. Some feedback from participating teachers is outlined. Leadership in education Educational leadership is most often associated with the role of the school administration team, however, leadership roles can be enacted by all stakeholders within the school community, including the student population (Levin, 1998; Wallin, 2003). Student leadership enhancement involves giving students opportunities to practice