Teachers’ Cognitive Constructs on Democratic Education in Schools: A Case Study

October 15, 2020 S. R. Zelenz Education, News

Educational Policy Analysis and Strategic Research, V 13,N 1, 2018
© 2018 INASED

Şenol Sezeri
Ordu University, Ordu
Ertuğ Canii
Kırklareli University, Kırklareli

Abstract


The purpose of this study is to determine the cognitive constructs of teachers on democratic education in schools. For this purpose, the study was modelled as a case study. The study group was 20 teachers and determined by using maximum variation sampling method. Repertory grid technique was used to collect data. Data were analyzed using descriptive analysis technique. The participants produced 200 valid cognitive constructs related to the democratic education in school. The most frequently mentioned cognitive constructs were respectively: (1) motivation increases, (2) confidence/self-confidence, (3) job satisfaction increases, (4) tolerance, (5) participative management, (6) employees feel precious, (7) organisational commitment, (8) new opinions, (9) human rights, and (10) freedom of ideas/impressions. The cognitive constructs were classified considering functionality and the similarity of them. As a result of classification, 14 main groups were determined according to the 200 valid cognitive constructs. Democratic participation should be encouraged by the school administrators. Besides, school society should display democratic attitudes for democratic education. In addition, the school administrators should appreciate students, teachers and parents in terms of success of school they manage.

Keywords: democratic education, cognitive construct, teacher, repertory grid.
DOI: 10.29329/epasr.2018.137.6

1 This study is an extended form of the paper presented at the 9th International Congress of Educational Research held in Ordu in Ordu University on May 11–14, 2017.


i Şenol Sezer is a faculty member at Ordu University, Education Faculty, Educational Sciences Department, Turkey.
Correspondence: senolsezer.28@gmail.com

iiErtuğ Can is a faculty member at Kırklareli University, Faculty of Art and Sciences, Educational Sciences Department, Turkey.

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About S. R. Zelenz 102 Articles
S.R. Zelenz has worked in education for 20 years. Working with students from all walks of life, cultures, races, and social diversity, Zelenz’s research in Educational Leadership led to finding a better way to approach learning for students with trauma histories. Many were juvenile offenders, gang members, diagnosed with varying behavioral disorders, or had family histories of violence, murder, or narcissistic parenting. This research could not be effectively accomplished without further understanding: how epigenetic trauma inheritance may be impacting these students; how brain development from trauma may be impacting their behavioral and emotional development; as well as deep understanding of psychology and its varying classifications for behavioral and personality disorders. The goal is to find solutions for changing the conversation and making a real difference for these students. She has also worked with nonprofits of varying focus areas for the last 25 years. Her undergraduate degree in Arts Administration and Music prepared her for managing nonprofits of any size as well as procuring funding so that they can achieve their goals. Pairing her nonprofit background with her education background, she has been able to make a difference for over 200 nonprofits worldwide, written curriculum for schools across the globe, and assisted many arts organizations through performance and management.

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