How leaders develop and direct relational trust-building efforts in schools /
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(Published version)
Date
2011
Authors
O'Brien, David,
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thesis
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Abstract
Although the concept of trust has emerged in a number of studies as a key element in improving schools (Manion, 1998; Hopkins, 2001; MacBeath et al, 2007), little systematic research exists on the nature of trust and how it is developed in educational communities. This point is emphasised by Daly & Chrisp eels (2008) who acknowledge the positive impact of trust on school performance but also highlight the lack of research into the relational aspects of trust and leadership. The purpose of this study was to investigate and identify the behaviours and actions of school leaders that direct relational trust-building efforts in schools.
Using a qualitative research methodology, data were gathered through a series of group interviews involving a total of 26 teachers at a primary school in the north of Adelaide. The interviews were held in a focus group format and conducted by an independent facilitator who asked a series of open-ended questions. Responses were recorded and analysed. The results of this research confirmed findings from previous studies showing that trust-based relationships between leaders and staff are dependent upon certain individual qualities and characteristics of the leader. Data gathered through the interviews highlighted the attributes of openness, compassion, respect, honesty, confidentiality, integrity, a willingness to acknowledge and recognise others, a commitment to treating people equitably and a dialogue of contribution as key contributors to trust-based relationships between leaders and staff.
School/Discipline
University of South Australia. School of Education.
School of Education
School of Education
Dissertation Note
Thesis (Masters by research)--University of South Australia, 2011.
Provenance
Copyright 2011 David O'Brien. This work is made available under the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs Australia 3.0 licence (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/3.0/au/)
Description
v, 143 leaves :
illustrations.
Includes bibliographic references.
illustrations.
Includes bibliographic references.
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