ABSTRACT
This part introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters. The part begins with a comprehensive review of the selection, education and professional development of educational administrators. It examines a number of alternative perspectives which seek to bridge the gap which often appears to separate theory and practice. The part considers the application of the perspectives in different situations, using mainly the Commonwealth Council for Educational Administration (CCEA) literature, and also examines the claim that theory and research can be regarded as catalysts of change. It discusses two decades as major concerns of the Commonwealth Council for Educational Administration and its affiliated national associations. The part presents John Weeks' panoramic view of the CCEA in action, closely linked with the Commonwealth Secretariat and the Commonwealth Foundation.
