EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
‘If you keep doing what you have always done, you will continue to get the same results’. – Dimmings
The research study undertaken investigated the approaches that have been taken to the development, promotion and embedding of the Stephen R. Covey’s The 7 Habits for Highly Effective People in school cultures, programs and student learning. It explored different contexts and practices found within the educational system of the United States of America through interviews and observations across four states and nine schools. The emphasis of the research was on the particular role of the principal in creating a positive and dynamic school culture.
Utilising the New South Wales Department of Education and Communities Leadership Capability Framework, the research attempts to draw some conclusion about the essential qualities of school leaders who have been able to successfully transform school culture. The area of study sought to identify the indicators of school culture and the links between school culture and student performance. Underpinning all educational sites was the utilisation of the Covey ‘7 habits’ as a transformational tool.
Acknowledging areas of contextual difference, it was still found that there was a large overlap of common beliefs and shared values within the culture of the schools. High performing schools demonstrated high levels of authentic leadership. A whole-school vision, with consistent and high expectations of all stakeholders was evident. Quality teaching practices in the classroom were underpinned by strong relationships and the explicit modelling of the 7 habits in every aspect of school life.
Within schools that showed strong evidence of the effective implementation of the ‘7 habits’, there were also positive indicators of improved student learning outcomes and achievement. Students demonstrated improved behaviour, there were fewer behaviour referrals, overall student wellbeing improved and higher levels of teacher satisfaction were reported. Parents were speaking very highly of the cultural shifts and business leaders have been stepping forward to sponsor the program’s implementation in their elementary schools. The pre-service teacher training program in Alabama now reflects the value placed on the ‘7 habits’ paradigm of learning, in defining the culture of classrooms and schools.
Across the board, the principal had a pivotal role to play in the paradigm shift which transpired in each school. This was not just welfare or student leadership program, but a way of ensuring the students were being equipped with 21st Century skills and values. There was a focus on operationally defining values and expectations and to maintaining a constancy of purpose within the school – ‘keeping the main thing, the main thing’ This was seen as a true reflection of the Covey third habit ‘putting first things first’. Things that matter the most should never be at the mercy of things which matter the least.