The micropolitical strategies and tactics administrative interns use during their clinical practicum

The purpose of this study was to investigate the micropolitical strategies and tactics of administrative interns (AIs) during their clinical practice. AIs are assigned to schools for only one semester and have a limited time to identify and assess special interest group members in the organization. They immediately must observe and assess situations and carry out their duties efficiently and effectively. This research highlighted the socio-political skills that were used by prospective administrators to identify and assess formal and informal power groups and to assist in ascertaining how these groups influence school processes and outcomes. The data suggested that once the AIs identified group membership, they crafted strategies and tactics that allowed them to infiltrate and influence the group. The data also highlighted the perception of the AIs’ socio-political influence on constituents at their schools. The AIs’ confidence levels also played a role in their ability to maneuver through the micropolitical environment. Ultimately, the results of this study are useful in expanding the existing methodology and contextualization of educational administration and can assist those who design leadership-training programs to increase their capacity to prepare individuals to be well grounded in the micropolitical processes of schools.