Article
“Faces” and complexities of continuing higher education units: A postmodern approach.
Journal of Continuing Higher Education
(2010)
Abstract
This study examines the dynamics of continuing higher education units within the sociopolitical context of higher education institutions. A qualitative approach to data collection and analysis was the study's design, while the theoretical frame was a postmodern, symbolic, theoretical approach to organizational studies. Results show that continuing education is a ubiquitous feature, found in every sphere of postsecondary education. However, various kinds of organizational configurations prevail. In addition, drawing on social and cultural anthropology as espoused by Bolman and Deal's four-frame model to “make sense of organization” at least six symbolic models and three organizational frameworks were construed as ways that leaders interpret their unit's organizational structure within their parent institution. The ability to visualize different models and organizational structures of continuing higher education divisions in today's educational environment is important to understand their division-parent relationships and their program development and delivery strategies.
Disciplines
Publication Date
June 29, 2010
DOI
10.1080/07377361003618333
Citation Information
Dr. Sandria Stephenson. "“Faces” and complexities of continuing higher education units: A postmodern approach." Journal of Continuing Higher Education Vol. 58 Iss. 2 (2010) p. 62 - 72 ISSN: 0737-7363 Available at: http://works.bepress.com/sandria-stephenson/12/