SUPERINTENDENTS GROUP PROBLEM-SOLVING PROCESSES

The problem-solving processes of seven superintendents with reputations of effectiveness were studied during regular meetings with senior administrative staff. An information-processing orientation guided the coding of verbal protocol data collected through the use of a stimulated recall technique. Results describe superintendents' processes for interpreting problems and setting goals for their solution. Also described are their processes for dealing with constraints, the nature of solution processes, and the role of values and mood in superintendents' problem solving.