Redesigning Public School Systems : A Qualitative Study Into The Potential For Utilizing Idealized Design To Create The "Next Generation" Of American Public Schools
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Authors
Pickering, Trace Douglas
Issue Date
2006
Type
Thesis
Language
en_US
Keywords
Public schools--United States--Design and plans , Education--United States--Aims and objectives , School management and organization--United States
Alternative Title
Abstract
The problem. To consider an alternative to traditional reform strategies and strategic
planning, the intent of this study was to inform those interested in designing school
systems capable of meeting current and future learning demands of the possibilities of
Idealized Design as a design methodology. Specifically, the problem was to analyze the
impact on participants in the process and their perceptions of the possibility of the new
design for their school districts. Participant perceptions were described and
recommendations for employing Idealized Design made.
Procedures. Qualitative methodology was employed due to the contextual nature of
Idealized Design. Twenty-nine teachers, administrators, board members, and community
members from two school districts involved in the Idealized Design process were randomly selected for interview and provided the opportunity to respond to a survey. Fifteen members participated - eight via face-to-face interviews and seven through an
open response questionnaire. Through these open-ended interviews, questionnaires, a
document review, and participation in the meetings, the impact of Idealized Design on
the designers and their perceptions of possibility for the Next Generation of schools were analyzed to develop conclusions, implications. and recommendations.
Findings. Respondents did find that their perceptions about schooling and design had
been altered through the Idealized Design experience. Respondents felt a greater sense
of commitment to the work and felt that the breadth and depth of their understanding
regarding the current set of interacting problems they faced were markedly improved.
They also indicated satisfaction with the amount of stakeholder input during the process,
leading them to feel more confident in pursuing significant changes for their schools.
Conclusions. Idealized Design appears to have the potential to impact the way in which
stakeholders view both the problems their community schools face and the solutions
afforded them.
Recommendations. Communities desiring to utilize Idealized Design need to carefully
consider their context and work to ensure that such a process can succeed. Idealized
Design has potential for districts and communities wishing to alter the conversation
around education. Idealized Design is a complex and involved process that requires
professional assistance until the methodology becomes more widely understood and practiced.
Description
126 leaves. Advisor: D. Darnell
Citation
Publisher
Drake University