PARADIGM EVALUATION OF LEARNING ENVIRONMENTS
Paradigm Evaluation of Learning Environments 2 Paradigm Evaluation of Learning Environments Paradigms serve as models or patterns that form the basis for methodology or theory. They are the framework in which influence daily actions taken by educational leaders, teachers and all stakeholders. Paradigms affect the way the education system is operated and the actions taken for reform and improvement. They are beliefs in which shape the way an individual and groups of people act. Due to the importance and impact of paradigms, it is essential that paradigms be analyzed to ensure actions are taking to improve the educational field rather than hinder the success of student achievement. Also with time, paradigms often change and must be evaluated. According to Dr. Riegle (2007), a leader must be visionary to be able to be efficient and successful in the twenty-first century. A visionary leader is one who can envision the future, which requires an understanding of current and future trends as well as previous paradigms and paradigm shifts. In Table 1, several paradigms related to learning, leadership and administration are analyzed regarding how they are operationalized through actions. The opposite is also evaluated regarding how it is operationalized in today’s learning environments. The paradigms consist of beliefs about learning environments and how the education system is taking actions based on these paradigms. The analysis of both paradigms and their opposite beliefs allow educators to see what is being done in the right direction and actions that are prohibiting growth. By analyzing both success and failures, and actions taken to cause both, the American education system will have a better chance at creating a rubric that will allow administrators and