The Power of Administrative Persuasion on Presidential Youth Fitness Program Support

• In Event: 34.079 - Roundtable Session 14
  In Roundtable Session: 34.079-4 - Political and Attitudinal Experiences Related to Physical Education

Abstract

Using grounded theory, the purpose of this study was to investigate administrators and their utilization of persuasive strategies for garnering support of the implementation of the Presidential Youth Fitness program (PYFP). Further, this study examines how teachers interpret persuasive attempts from administrators. Using a mixed methods approach, we collected data through surveys, interviews, and site visits across 25 schools (36 teachers & 5 administrators). Inductive and deductive reasoning were used to; 1) identify persuasive messages affecting teachers, 2) measure the degree of persuasion employed by the administrator, and 3) evaluate how the teacher interpreted the persuasive message. Results were organized into key themes of Money Talks, Acknowledge Me, and Subtle Messages Multiple Interpretations.

Authors

• Jeanne M. Barcelona, Wayne State University

• Darla M. Castelli, The University of Texas - Austin

• Elizabeth M Glowacki