Proposes a conceptual framework for viewing alternative schools. Identifies four educational ideologies and explores how they may influence school goals, program, formal structure, environment, and informal processes and norms. Develops propositions related to (1) the relationship between alternative schools and the external environment and (2)…

This research indicates that educational organizations consist of a loose collection of individuals, units, or levels, each performing activities independently--as segmented units buffered from one another. The authors suggest ways administrators can be effective in this environment. (Author/IRT)

Linking activities between knowledge production and actual practices in schools need to be guided by understanding of how educational organizations work. Educational organizations evidence unique organizational patterns, including diffuse goals, weak connections between activities and outcomes, political vulnerability, and working conditions that…

A brief introduction to organizational theory and organizational development for educational administrators is provided in this document. The first section contrasts individualistic and organizational approaches to educational problems. It is intended to give administrators two distinct perspectives for viewing day-to-day events. The second…