Diffusion of Instructional Reform in a Rural Elementary School: A Convergence of Elements Approach

• In Event: 77.053 - School Reform and Improvement

Abstract

In this study, diffusion of innovation theory and Adams and Jean-Marie’s (2010) convergence postulate were applied to better understand the facilitative elements of reform and the importance of convergence of those elements in one rural PK-8 school district implementing an instructional reform. This study drew from interviews, observations, and document review, as well as social network analysis survey methods. The findings reveal the contributing and inhibiting factors to reform diffusion and the interdependence of leadership, time, and social systems in successful educational change. This study suggests implications related to relationships and leadership supports for development of future policy and interventions.

Authors

• Jackie Mania-Singer, University of Oklahoma

• Dawn Pearce, University of Oklahoma

• Jessica Noonan, Oklahoma State University

• Karie Carpenter, Oklahoma State University