Decentralization

Question 1

Caldwell 200

Answer 1

The logic relates to addressing the unique needs of schools with a unique approach - but can lead to unrealistic expectations.
Trend towards decentralization in the west (Czech Rep., UK, Hungary & NL) and also China, Indonesia, Thailand

Question 2

Davies et al 2003

Malawi

Answer 2

Changes associated with decentralization in Malawi (post 1994 after President Banda stepped down) caused other changes in work culture e.g. accountability, goal setting etc.

Question 3

Hanson 1998

Answer 3

Decentralization is built, not created. It doesn’t come simply with the passing of laws - the organizational culture needs to be transformed.
Educational decentralization reforms tend to have their roots in the political arena

Question 4

Karlsen 2000

Answer 4

Some countries - a swing back to centralization in the 90’s, with a centrally driven curriculum strategy.
In Norway, decentralization on the agenda since late 1960’s. Strengthens democracy by shifting from central to local
Encourages innovation & school development Strengthens local culture, business & community
Achieves greater efficiency

Question 5

Karstanje 1999

Answer 5

Motivation for decentralization - reducing distance between government & school and shifting financial risks to a lower level

Question 6

Caldwell & Spinks 1998

Answer 6

A self-managing school is one to which there has been decentralization of a significant amount of authority & responsibility to make decisions about the allocation of resources

Question 7

Cailloids 1999

Answer 7

Decentralization is one of the most important phenomena to influence schools in the last 15 years

Question 8

Levacic 2002

Domains of decision-making

Answer 8

School organisation
Curriculum
Staff
Financial resources
Extended relations