Introduction

Part 1: Theory and Practice of Reflection

1. Reflection as Theory

2. Reflection as a Public Service Value

3. Reflection as Good Practice

Part 2: Tools for Reflection

4. Reflection as Hindsight

5. Reflection as Mindfulness

6. Reflection as Perspective

Part 3: Pathways of Reflection

7. Reflection as Doubt

8. Reflection as Self-Analysis

9. Reflection as Preparation

10. Reflection as Second Wind

Part 4: Reflection for Organizational Change

11. Reflection as Culture

12. Reflection as Assessment

13. Reflection as Forethought

The Reflective Administrator takes the well-grounded theories of reflective thought out of the classroom setting and delivers them into the public sector workplace.

The intentional practice of reflection is useful not only with regard to experiential learning in public administration education but also within the profession itself. The text dispels misconceptions about what reflective practice entails and offers the reader practical tools to implement in both the classroom and professional environments. The book begins by walking the reader through a foundational overview of reflective thought theory, cultivates understanding of reflection in practice, then closes the loop by helping the reader to conceptualize the ideas presented and offering applicable takeaways for both students and practitioners. Chapters utilize real-world case studies which detail work environment interactions, planning, and outcomes. These provide opportunities to examine and dissect individual and group dynamics using a reflective practice lens.

The Reflective Administrator offers a fresh perspective on the utility of reflective thought in public service for professional growth and leadership development, and it will be a key resource for students as well as public administration practitioners.

“The Reflective Administrator: A Leader-Centered Focus is an essential resource for leaders desiring to gain a deeper knowledge of reflection as a professional tool. This book challenges leaders to embrace going against the status quo and incorporate a rewarding change agent mindset. The authors do a great job of drawing the readers in with an easy to read and supportive framework, case studies, and examples of reflective learning. I was so inspired after reading this book that I personally challenged myself to becoming more reflective within my personal and professional life. If you are looking for an insightful, practical, implement ready, and life changing book to improve your entire life I highly recommend this one whole-heartedly!”

Eva Carleen Alexander, EdD, Adult Education Adjunct Instructor, Northshore Technical Community College, USA

“The importance of intentional reflective practice cannot be overestimated. The Reflective Administrator moves from theory and research through practical application including cognition and feelings in reflective practice. The inclusion of “Mirror Moments” gives the study of becoming a reflective administrator a very practical and helpful component that one can immediately incorporate into practice. Connecting mindfulness and reflective practice is another practical gem incorporated in this text. This book is useful for not only public administrators but for any leader interested in becoming more reflective in their career path or practice.”

Joyce Jemison, Licensed Speech and Language Pathologist, USA

“The Reflective Administrator: A Leader-Centered Focus is not only a must–read, it is a must-do! As a professor who teaches working professionals in leadership positions in organizations of all types to practice applied leadership, this book is filled with excellent theoretical foundations, research and practical case studies that my students can use. It is also essential to administrators in any field as a treatise for reflective practice. The text builds depth and breadth of understanding from the first chapter through the last and concludes with a crescendo…by framing reflection as forethought. Simply brilliant! I cannot recommend this book enough.”

Jeni McRay, PhD, Associate Professor of Leadership Studies, Assistant Provost of Internationalization & Strategic Initiatives, Fort Hays State University, USA

“The Reflective Administrator: A Leader-Centered Focus eloquently conveys a fresh perspective on well-known theories germane to reflective thought and presents practical ways to employ reflection within the public sector classroom and workplace. The book effectively guides readers through relevant reflective thought theories, the usefulness of reflection in the workplace and wisely incorporates practical case studies for further reflection and study. This influential book focuses on how to apply reflection in public service fields, describes how civil service professionals can incorporate reflective practice to develop a personal ethical framework, and inspires readers to integrate reflective thought into their leadership toolkit. The book earns my highest recommendation and inspires me to encourage others to add this gem to their professional development library.”

David Ximenez, Associate Vice Chancellor, Enrollment and Academic Support Services, Tarrant County College District, USA

Biography

Angela Pool-Funai serves as the Assistant Provost for Academic Programs and Dean of the Graduate School and Office of Scholarship and Sponsored Projects at Fort Hays State University (FHSU) in northwest Kansas. Her academic appointment is in the Department of Sociology at FHSU. Among other publications, she is the author of Ethics in Fiscal Administration: An Introduction (2018, Routledge). Dr. P-F holds degrees from Valdosta State University, Baylor University, and Stephen F. Austin State University. In her spare time, she enjoys canoeing and tinkering on cars.

Tony E. Summers, retired, served as the Chief Executive Officer of the University of the District of Columbia Community College. He previously served as the Vice President for Student Development at the Dallas College, Richland Campus. He completed doctoral studies in Adult Learning and Higher Education at Walden University. An experienced lecturer, educator, facilitator, writer, and consultant, Dr. Summers is also active in numerous community organizations and serves as a board member for several national and local organizations, including the National Council on Student Development, The National Campaign to Prevent Teen and Unplanned Pregnancy, and the Parkland Hospital Community Health Advisory Board. In addition, he was selected to receive a fellowship from the W.K. Kellogg Community College Leadership program.