Date of Award

2008-01-01

Degree Name

Master of Arts

Department

Communication

Advisor(s)

Arvind Singhal

Abstract

This study explored the feasibility of using dialectic theory to study of dialectic oppositions in teachers' school-based relationships. Employing relational dialectics as a theoretical framework, this study exposed several sets of dialectical forces emerging in teachers' relationships. 23 high school teachers were interviewed utilizing a semi-structured questionnaire; interviews were transcribed and coded for analysis. The analysis revealed that the dialectic tensions of control vs. emancipation, empowerment vs. oppression are prevalent in teachers' relationships with administrators; the dialectic tensions of solidarity vs. autonomy and fragmentation vs. unity are common in the relationships of teachers with administrators and colleagues as well; while the dialectic tensions of nurture vs. discipline, respect vs. suspect, consistency vs. flexibility, and connection vs. disconnection are prominent in teachers' relationships with their students.

Language

en

Provenance

Received from ProQuest

File Size

80 pages

File Format

application/pdf

Rights Holder

Griselda Rodriguez

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