Administrative Department and Role of the Administrator

Administrative Department Overview

  • Purpose of the Administrative Department
    • The administrative department is vital for operational functionality.
    • It oversees the implementation of resources required for project execution, which is also influenced by political decisions.

Role of the Administrator

  • Primary Responsibilities
    • The administrator's key responsibility is to ensure the continuity of teaching and learning within the business school.
    • The fundamental goals of the business school include:
    • Teaching
    • Research
    • The administrator emphasizes the connection between research and teaching:
    • "If I do my research, I learn, and I improve what I have to teach."
    • The relationship between students and the administration is outlined as follows:
    • Administrator's Goal: To teach.
    • Students' Job: To learn.

Components of Administrative Functions

  • Key Functions
    • Planning:
    • A process of establishing goals and determining how to achieve them effectively.
    • Organizing:
    • Efficient allocation and organization of resources.
    • Ensures proper placement and management of resources needed for educational purpose.
    • Directing:
    • Leading and guiding staff and students towards the goals of the school.
    • Example: Managing logistics during exam periods.
    • Staffing:
    • Involves recruiting the most qualified individuals for specific tasks:
      • Find the right personnel to fulfill various educational responsibilities.
      • Relevant to human resources (HR) functions within the academic environment.
    • Coordinating:
    • Synchronizing activities and resources to achieve collective outcomes.
    • Reporting:
    • Documenting and communicating progress, issues, and needs within the administrative framework.
    • Budgeting:
    • Planning and overseeing financial resources to ensure the smooth operation of the school.

Real-world Scenario in Administration

  • Case Study: Managing Exam Logistics
    • During an exam period, immediate problems may arise that require prompt administrative action.
    • Example Incident:
    • A student’s examination paper was incomplete due to a missing page.
    • Immediate response involved:
      • Contacting the lecturer to obtain the missing paper.
      • Printing and distributing the correct version which involved:
      • Printing approximately 50 copies for students.
    • This showcases the day-to-day decision-making and problem-solving required in administrative roles.

Technical Difficulties Encountered

  • Meeting Communication
    • An anecdote shared about being unintentionally audible during a meeting due to a microphone issue.
    • This highlights the importance of awareness regarding technology use in the administrative context.

Conclusion

  • The administrator's role is not only central to ensuring educational efficiency but also involves a range of functions that keep the department organized and responsive to the needs of the school and its stakeholders.