Power principles for educational leaders: research into practice

Abstract

Purpose

The aim of this article is to examine the empirical literature on irrationality and identify a set of concepts to help administrators cope with irrationality in decision making.

Design/methodology/approach

This analysis is a synthesis of the selected research literature on irrationality.

Findings

A set of seven concepts and propositions was indentified that are critical in understanding the influence on irrationality on decision making.

Research limitations/implications

The propositions proposed are ways to deal constructively with irrational behavior in decision making, but it is only a beginning.

Practical implications

The concepts, propositions, and their application to practice are not well‐known in educational administration and are useful tools for educational leaders.

Originality/value

The paper discusses the power of seven concepts: perception; simplification; decisiveness; deadlines; norms; ownership; and emotional expectation.

Citation

Hoy, W.K. and Tarter, C.J. (2011), "Power principles for educational leaders: research into practice", International Journal of Educational Management, Vol. 25 No. 2, pp. 124-133. https://doi.org/10.1108/09513541111107551