Qualitative Analyses

The introduction of common achievement standards and accountability based primarily on common assessments in public education over the last two decades is akin to a 'machine bureaucracy' structure, characterized by relatively a large technostructure and decisions being handed down from the powerful strategic apex (Bolman & Deal, 2017, p. 79).

Qualitative, phenomenological analyses with the aim of “describing the lived experiences of individuals” (Creswell & Creswell, 2018, p. 13) in an engagement culture could provide context for practitioners. For example, there is a strong correlation between teachers trusting the principal at his or her word and teacher satisfaction. Understanding what strengthens and undermines trust in these relationships could help strengthen engagement culture.

Additional Variables

Researchers should pinpoint additional systemic engagement culture indicators and study actions that improve satisfaction and minimize dissatisfaction. 

Potential Sources

• Specific student survey items and constructs

• Specific parent survey items and constructs

• Administrator attitudes

• School policies

• Academic outcomes by school level (i.e., elementary, middle school, high schools)

• Data collected by USDoE, including the Common Core of Data (NCES, 2020b), Civil Rights Data Collection (U.S. Department of Education, 2018c), and EDFacts Data Files (U.S. Department of Education, 2020)

• Non-academic outcomes: 

  • School shootings

  • Suicide rates

  • Reports of bullying

  • Attendance

  • Chronic absenteeism

  • Dropout rates

  • Teacher turnover

  • Program funding

  • Attrition

  • Graduation rates

  • Discretionary removals

Schein & Schein teach that there are three layers of culture:

1. Artifacts - These are the things you can see... detention forms, signs, dress codes, spirit signs, and more.

2. Espoused Values - These are the things people say they care about. Be careful... Espoused values are often aspirational!

3. Basic Underlying Assumptions - This is "the way we do things around here." It is the most accurate indicator but also the hardest to detect because it is hidden. 

Organizational Culture and Leadership (Amazon Link)