A case study of the knowledge and understanding of leadership amongst leaders in the Scout Association in an English city

Kirsz, Alan Stanislaw (2007). A case study of the knowledge and understanding of leadership amongst leaders in the Scout Association in an English city. University of Birmingham. Ed.D.

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Abstract

Little interest has been shown in the leadership of voluntary providers of informal education for young people. This is true of one of the largest providers: the Scout Association. The thesis examines the nature, diversity and sources of the knowledge and understanding of leadership of Scout Association leaders in one English Midlands city. The understanding is compared with contemporary ways of understanding leadership in education using a typology established by Gunter and Ribbins (2003) and Gunter (2005). The impact of leader training on the understanding of leadership and its perceived effect on leader performance is explored. A case study methodology is used including a questionnaire method supported by documentary evidence and drawing on personal experience. Data analysis involves factor analysis, analysis of variance and Chi-square tests. Findings indicate that leadership is understood in terms of inclusion and success and has an ethical basis pointing to a belief in shared leadership. Variations in this understanding exist amongst different groups. Understanding of leadership mainly comes from sources within the Association. There is a degree of uncertainty amongst leaders about the impact of leader training. Leadership is interpreted in a range of ways as described by the Gunter and Ribbins (2003) and Gunter (2005) typology. The findings could have implications for how the Association develops an understanding of leadership in the future and could influence the thinking and decision making of all leaders in the Association, in particular training managers and trainers from local to national levels of the organisation. The findings may also have implications for researchers interested in the impact of market forces on leadership in the formal education sector.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Doctorates > Ed.D.)

Award Type:

Doctorates > Ed.D.

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