The Function of Gaps Between Declarations and Actions in Schools

• In Event: 53.023 - Using Organization Theory to Improve Schools

Abstract

This study seeks to better understand the school-system relationship by examining two cases of “gaps” - that is, disparities between declarations and actions in the educational system. Gaps can often appear to restrain the school from providing optimal education, but in some cases they promote school sustainability and success. Using the tracking process and gender education as test cases, two such gaps were recognized and analyzed base on the New Institutional Theory. It was found that schools use gaps as a way to reduce tension between various demands of diverse actors in the educational field and to enable school’s endurance. Further theoretical and practical implications are discussed.

Author

• Hilla Tal, Ben Gurion University of the Negev