Planned Change in Higher Education: A Case Study of the NASSP Alliance for Developing School Leaders
Degree Name
EdD (Doctor of Education)
Program
Educational Leadership
Date of Award
May 1994
Abstract
The problem was that much effort was being put into an alliance for preparing school leaders with little evidence concerning how effective such groups were in promoting positive change. The purpose of this study was to provide a historical background for the National Alliance for Developing School Leaders that included the rationale for the endeavor, the identification of key actors and their roles, and perceived changes resulting from Alliance affiliation. The information gleaned from the study was intended to answer the formulated research questions. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews and through examination of relevant documents. Data were coded and clustered to assist with the organization of a plethora of information. The information was then used to tell the story of the National Alliance for Developing School Leaders as told by those directly involved in the conception and development of the Alliance. Evidence indicated that change had occurred as a result of the National Alliance for Developing School Leaders, however, the degree of change experienced varied across university sites. Conclusions drawn indicated that the Alliance provided faculty and students exposure to new materials and teaching techniques, opportunities for increased presentations and publications, higher visibility, professional development opportunities that included area school administrators, and increased professional dialogue regarding changes needed in administrator preparation programs. Evidence existed that more on-site visits and opportunities to dialogue about the successes of each program as well as the difficulties encountered by the universities attempting to change their preparation programs were desired by Alliance participants. Participants reflected on their experiences resulting from involvement with the National Alliance for Developing School Leaders and then shared insights regarding essentials necessary for successful multiorganizational collaborative efforts.
Document Type
Dissertation - unrestricted
Recommended Citation
Smith, Penny L., "Planned Change in Higher Education: A Case Study of the NASSP Alliance for Developing School Leaders" (1994). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. Paper 2795. https://dc.etsu.edu/etd/2795