ERIC Number: EJ1146647
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2017
Pages: 26
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1059-308X
EISSN: N/A
Am I Wearing the Right Hat? Navigating Professional Relationships between Parent-Teachers and Their Colleagues
Lipsky, Eliana; Friedman, Ilana Dvorin; Harkema, Rebecca
School Community Journal, v27 n1 p257-282 2017
Utilizing organizational role theory and cognitive role theory as a theoretical framework, this phenomenological study examined the experience of parent-teachers and colleague-teachers in small educational settings and their perceptions of these dynamic relationships and potential areas of conflict. Findings highlighted perceived strengths, yet tensions and challenges persisted as teachers used a variety of management techniques to navigate their unique intrapersonal and interpersonal roles. Discussed are the themes that emerged from the data collected regarding role conflict, boundary crossing, boundary blurring, and management of the related tensions. The researchers argue that open communication concerning this phenomenon is important to improve a school's culture and organizational health. This study explored a small sample of voices at three small but distinct schools spanning early childhood through college level. The researchers believe this study begins a much needed dialogue about the impact parent-teachers in small school settings have on their respective school communities.
Descriptors: Role Theory, Phenomenology, Parent Teacher Cooperation, Teacher Collaboration, Interpersonal Relationship, Role Conflict, Higher Education, Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education, Private Schools, Jews, Christianity, Semi Structured Interviews, Coding
Academic Development Institute. 121 North Kickapoo Street, Lincoln, IL 62656. Tel: 1-800-759-1495; Web site: http://www.schoolcommunitynetwork.org/
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research; Tests/Questionnaires
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education; Early Childhood Education; Elementary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A