Date of Award
Fall 12-6-2023
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Education (EdD)
Department
Organizational Leadership
First Advisor
Dr. Philip Pendley
Second Advisor
Dr. Marylou Wilson
Third Advisor
Dr. Martinrex Kedziora
Abstract
Purpose: The purpose of this exploratory phenomenological study was to identify and describe the strategies used by middle school principals to build an adaptive capacity based on the five key characteristics of adaptive leadership identified by Heifetz et al. (2009).
Methodology: Three counties in northern California were selected to conduct a phenomenological study on middle school principals. Of this population, purposeful sampling was applied to identify participants who met specific criteria. Ten participants were selected: four from Contra Costa County, three from San Joaquin County, and three from Stanislaus County. The researcher conducted one-on-one interviews to gather data, which was coded and analyzed.
Findings: Examining qualitative data from the participating exemplary middle school principals who use strategies from the five key adaptive leadership characteristics (Heifetz et al., 2009) to build capacity within their organizations led to various themes and findings. Analysis revealed 422 frequencies and 28 themes. From the 28 themes, 12 key findings emerged.
Conclusions: The study examined and described how exemplary middle school principals use the five key adaptive leadership characteristics to build adaptive capacity within their organizations. The research resulted in four conclusions focusing on dedicating time for reflection and continuous improvement, seeking feedback and staff input, engaging in shared leadership, and establishing a culture of trust.
Recommendations: Based on the findings from this study, six recommendations were put forth for further research to advance the understanding of how middle school principals use the five adaptive leadership characteristics to build adaptive capacity within their organizations.
Recommended Citation
Daubin, Danielle, "Adaptive Leadership During Times of Great Change and Opportunity" (2023). Dissertations. 535.
https://digitalcommons.umassglobal.edu/edd_dissertations/535