Date of Award

4-1984

Degree Name

Doctor of Education

Department

Educational Leadership

First Advisor

Dr. Uldis Smidchens

Second Advisor

Dr. Carol Sheffer

Third Advisor

Dr. David Myers

Abstract

This study described the leadership style of school business officials employed by Michigan school districts with an enrollment range between 5,000 and 20,000 students. The population was comprised of 68 public school districts.

The dependent variable of leadership style and the independent variables of age, experience, professional orientation, and enrollment size were investigated. The basis for a predominant leadership style was also established.

Leadership style was defined as the extent to which the leader is concerned about (a) task or production, and (b) people or relationships. Various theories focusing on the dimensions of concern for task and concern for people were reviewed. Blake and Mouton's (1964) Managerial Grid and associated style taxonomy was selected for this study since it provided the enhancements of a scale and an additional style classification (5,5 moderate concern for task and people) when compared to other quadrant approches.

A researcher-designed instrument to gather personal data was attached to the Style of Management Inventory (SMI). The SMI was used to collect data on leadership style. These questionnaires were mailed to the population with a response rate of 70.6%.

No relationship was found between the leadership style and the independent variables of age, experience, professional orientation, and enrollment size. Blake and Mouton's style classification of 5,5, used by 52.1% of the respondents, was established as the predominant leadership style.

Access Setting

Dissertation-Open Access

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