In activity one, we were asked to rank 20 leadership characteristics. In the first task, we were asked to evaluate and rank 20 essential leadership traits according to their importance in determining a successful leader. The objective was to identify the key attributes that are considered most vital for leaders to possess. It was fascinating to see how my team members ranked the traits differently from my own perspective and how there were many similarities across the team.
Our individual experiences with leaders, whether positive or negative, shape what qualities we admire in leaders. A reflective leader aligns with my values. Castelli (2016) states that a reflective leader has self-awareness, mindfulness, and personal wisdom. These traits positively affect teams, promoting motivation and collaboration and creating a safe and inclusive work environment. Now, would these traits be as impactful in digital environments? We know that the digital world is constantly evolving at a fast pace. Leaders in digital environments should still possess self-awareness, mindfulness, and personal wisdom. However, a leader in digital environments should possess digital literacy, adaptability, and be forward-looking.
Digital Literacy
It may be assumed that leaders in digital spaces must possess digital literacy skills; however, this is not always the case. Kane et al. (2019) indicate that “Leaders who lack digital literacy skills may have difficulty keeping up with the rapid changes occurring in the digital world and miss out on potential opportunities and risks” (p. 36). Therefore, it is vital for those leading within digital learning contexts to possess an adequate level of digital literacy. In addition, self-awareness is also a key component of successful leadership in these environments. Self-aware leaders tend to be aware of their own capabilities and limitations, including their level of digital literacy. Through self-awareness, leaders can focus on honing their skills to thrive in rapidly changing digital environments.
Adaptability
Kane et al. (2019) emphasize the importance of adaptability for leaders in digital environments, citing that such leaders must possess an open-minded, flexible attitude and the ability to quickly learn and adopt new methods and processes (p. 36). This is critical to staying abreast of emerging trends and developments in the digital world, as rapid changes can occur anytime. By being adaptable, leaders can ensure they remain well-equipped to guide their teams in the ever-evolving digital landscape.
Transformative Vision
Leaders in digital environments should possess a transformative vision to remain competitive in the rapidly changing digital world. According to Kane et al. (2019), 22% of respondents identified this as the most important skill in digital organizations. This involves anticipating future trends and developments in the digital world, understanding the digital landscape, and having a deep knowledge of emerging technologies and trends. Having a transformative vision allows leaders to stay ahead of the curve and ensure that their organizations remain competitive.
References
Castelli, P. A. (2016). Reflective leadership review: a framework for improving organisational performance. Journal of Management Development, 35(2), 217–236. https://doi.org/10.1108/jmd-08-2015-0112
Kane, G. C., Anh, N., Copulsky, J., & Andrus, G. (2019). How Digital Leadership Is(n’t) Different – ProQuest. Www.proquest.com. https://www.proquest.com/docview/2207927776/abstract/70BA63B9D8FC452BPQ/1?accountid=8056
Hi Jess,
Thank you for sharing the Kane et al article – some great insights from their research. You include digital literacy as a requirement for leadership in digital environments and I agree this is vital. As Kane et al highlight leaders need to have a high-level understanding of how technologies work, and what the emerging trends are, so they can make well-informed decisions. This reminds me of our discussion about ChatGPT and how that might affect various aspects of education – assessments, ethical uses, policies and implementation. What does digital literacy look like in your context – and how would that lead to helping having a transformative vision?