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Educational Theory into Practice Software (ETIPS) is an online case study program intended for use by professors of education administration. The program was developed by Sara Dexter and Pamela D. Tucker of the University of Virginia and was tested by various other universities throughout Virginia. The author, a member of the testbed group, outlines in this chapter the theoretical framework, elaborating on the advantages of interactive, authentically contextualized online case studies over traditional print scenarios. Emphasis is given to the outcomes of the program, which are to strengthen candidates’ skills in data analysis, problem solving, and collaborative decision making. ETIPS enhances practical leadership skills for those who serve on the frontlines. With the rapid growth of online principal preparation programs, this tool clearly represents a change in preparation. Readers will learn not only from the testbed study itself but will gain valuable information to maximize the use of traditional print case studies as well.
Considering the bleak analysis of the state of educational-administration university programs offered in Arthur Levine’s (2005, March) report entitled Educating School Leaders, developments such as ETIPS serve as a fitting response. Levine concluded in his critique that the curriculum in university programs was irrelevant and desperately lacking in meaningful experiences connecting theory to practice. Within weeks of these scathing statements, Levine (2005, April) wrote the following comment in The Chronicle of Higher Education:
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