The Influence of Leadership on Innovation in Alberta Charter Schools: A Qualitative Case Study
Date
2020-03-06
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Abstract
This study used a qualitative, instrumental, multisite case study design to examine the leadership practices of principals of three charter schools in Alberta with significantly different mandates in order to determine how they inspired innovation among their staff. Leadership practices were examined through semistructured interviews with each principal and a member of their teaching staff. Additionally, observations of the physical layout of the interior and exterior of the school were conducted in order to understand the physical context of each school and examination of extant documentation such as websites, school charter documents, calendars, and blogs was completed. These interviews and observations formed the basis of a narrative exploration of the innovative practices at each school and the leadership practices that appeared to support and encourage them. Several themes developed as a result of this research, including relationships built on trust, leaders acting as servants, establishing and communicating a clear vision, distribution of leadership, and creating a culture of innovation. These themes enabled a discussion of the three key research questions focusing on leadership practices, personal creativity, and establishment of a definition of what practices might be seen as innovative. Finally, the conclusion discusses potential steps that leaders and government may take in order to increase and support innovative practices in schools.
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Keywords
educational leadership, innovation, Alberta Charter schools, creativity
Citation
Guglielmin, M. N. (2020). The Influence of Leadership on Innovation in Alberta Charter Schools: A Qualitative Case Study (Master's thesis, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada). Retrieved from https://prism.ucalgary.ca.