Journal of Educational Leadership in Action
Philosophy Statement
The Journal of Educational Leadership in Action (ELA) is grounded in the belief that leading in the field of education is fundamentally a transformative initiative—one that requires both scholarly rigor and practical wisdom.
Our philosophical orientation centers on the following commitments:
Theory and Practice - We believe in the essential dialogue between theory and practice. ELA values research that not only advances theoretical understanding but also clarifies pathways for meaningful action in educational contexts. We embrace a holistic approach where each informs and strengthens the other.
Critical Inquiry and Reflection - ELA is committed to scholarship that questions assumptions, examines power dynamics, and challenges conventional wisdom in education and educational leadership. We value research that demonstrates thoughtful awareness of the researcher's position and perspectives, recognizing that all knowledge production is situated in unique contexts and worldviews.
Ethical Leadership - At the heart of our mission is the conviction that the those in the field of education/educational leadership must be guided by profound ethical commitments to equity, justice, and human flourishing. We seek scholarship that examines not only what works but what is right and good in educational leadership practice.
Diverse Research Approaches - We embrace diverse ways of knowing and investigating education/educational leadership. ELA values methodological approaches that are aligned with the questions being explored, whether these are empirical or conceptual, qualitative or quantitative, established or innovative.
Global and Contextual Understanding - While acknowledging the importance of context-specific knowledge, ELA also recognizes patterns and principles that transcend specific settings. We value scholarship that builds bridges across diverse educational contexts while respecting the uniqueness of local circumstances.
Accessibility and Inclusivity - As an open-access publication, ELA is committed to the inclusivity of voices about education/educational leadership. We believe that scholarly insights should be available to all who seek them, regardless of institutional affiliation or resource constraints.
Transformative Potential - ELA recognizes that scholarly discourse has the power to reshape educational landscapes. We value research that catalyzes new thinking, challenges established paradigms and opens possibilities for meaningful change in educational leadership practice and policy. We seek to foster a community where diverse perspectives engage in respectful exchange, creating intellectual synergies that transcend what any individual contribution might achieve in isolation.
Through these philosophical commitments, the Journal of Educational Leadership in Action aims to contribute to a more thoughtful, equitable, and transformative educational leadership landscape—one that serves the flourishing of learners, educators, and communities.