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Do labels matter when implementing change? Implications of labelling an academic as a champion - results from a case study
Citation
Cordiner, M and Thomas, S and Green, W, Do labels matter when implementing change? Implications of labelling an academic as a champion - results from a case study, Studies in Higher Education, 43, (3) pp. 484-499. ISSN 0307-5079 (2016) [Refereed Article]
Copyright Statement
Copyright 2016 Society for Research into Higher Education
DOI: doi:10.1080/03075079.2016.1180674
Abstract
Organisational change literature is littered with labels for those who instigate, support, resist, or implement change. Absent is research into the perspectives of those who are given these labels. This paper reports findings from a literature search, journal scan and a case study of an Australian university where change agents were labelled ‘School Champions’. Data analysis of the authors suggests that labels do matter, not only to change agents, but also other academics who interacted with them such as Associate Deans. The authors found that, because a label implies an identity, when the choice of labels is unexamined, unintended consequences can result. These include ridicule, derision, and serious or light-hearted teasing, plus dismissive and cynical attitudes towards senior management’s endorsement of buzz words as labels. The authors suggest strategies to ensure that a label or identity badge suits academe, has minimal potential to cause emotional or professional harm, and is embraced rather than renounced.
Item Details
Item Type: | Refereed Article |
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Keywords: | organisational change, labels, champion, change agents, buzz words |
Research Division: | Education |
Research Group: | Education systems |
Research Field: | Higher education |
Objective Division: | Education and Training |
Objective Group: | Schools and learning environments |
Objective Field: | Policies and development |
UTAS Author: | Cordiner, M (Mrs Moira Cordiner) |
UTAS Author: | Thomas, S (Dr Sharon Thomas) |
UTAS Author: | Green, W (Dr Wendy Green) |
ID Code: | 109535 |
Year Published: | 2016 |
Deposited By: | Education |
Deposited On: | 2016-06-21 |
Last Modified: | 2018-08-23 |
Downloads: | 0 |
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