Inquiry into the establishment of participative management towards change at Primary Schools in the North Metro Education District in the Western Cape in disadvantage communities

Abstract

This research study aims to facilitate a collaborative inquiry process among key stakeholders in primary schools, including post-level one teachers, Head of Departments, Deputy Principals, and Principals. Stakeholder participative management within the three primary schools is notably limited, particularly among teachers. This lack of meaningful engagement has resulted in feelings of exclusion, dissatisfaction, frustration and potentially undermining collaborative governance, staff morale and effectiveness of the overall school management. The primary goal of this research is to engage teachers in decision-making processes that drive positive change in school management. The study was guided by Likert’s System IV Participative Management Theory framework which provides for understanding stakeholder participation in school management and decision-making processes. Employing a Participatory Action Research Design, this study addresses the issue of limited stakeholder participation and its impact on effective school management. The research was conducted in three primary schools in a disadvantaged community in the Western Cape. The study involved thirty-three (n=33) participants, eleven (n=11) from each school. Data was collected using qualitative methods, including focus groups and in-depth interviews. This approach provided valuable insights into teachers' perspectives and informed inclusive decision-making practices. The research findings, analysed through thematic analysis techniques, are expected to illuminate teachers' views and experiences, and offer guidance to the three primary schools on enhancing teachers' participative management for change. The ultimate goal is to foster an inclusive and participatory approach to school management, particularly within disadvantaged communities, thereby improving the overall educational landscape.