Management of organizational change in educational institutions: A vignette-based qualitative study

The aim of this study is to examine how school administrators evaluate the process of organizational change in educational institutions through a vignette-based qualitative study. The study group consisted of 45 school administrators working in middle schools in the central districts of Siirt and Malatya. The data were collected through a vignette text on organizational change prepared by the researchers and a semi-structured interview form based on this text. The data obtained were analyzed using content analysis. The findings showed that the school principal first analyzed the existing situation during the change process. It was determined that the principal planned the process, used communication channels, and attempted to ensure participation. In addition, organizing task distribution, supporting motivation, and managing resistance were among the prominent action steps. The participants stated that participation in decision-making processes increased ownership, motivation, and cooperation. However, it was also stated that if participation was not carried out in a planned manner, it could lead to confusion and conflict in the process. As a result, it was concluded that a planned, participatory, communicative, and supportive leadership approach is decisive in school-based change processes