Date of Award:

8-2017

Document Type:

Dissertation

Degree Name:

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Department:

School of Teacher Education and Leadership

Department name when degree awarded

Teacher Education and Leadership

Committee Chair(s)

Suzanne H. Jones

Committee

Suzanne H. Jones

Committee

Susan Turner

Committee

Steven O. Laing

Committee

L. Joseph Matthews

Committee

Bradley A. Winn

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore the attitudes, practices, and behaviors of principals who foster teacher collective efficacy. The research questions were developed based upon Bandura’s social cognitive theory to include (a) what are the attitudes held by principals that influence TCE; (b) what are the behaviors enacted by principals that influence TCE; (c) what are the practices employed by principals that influence TCE. The study utilized a qualitative approach with a multisite case study design. The Collective Teacher Efficacy Scale developed by Goddard et al. was used to measure TCE of participating schools. The survey results were analyzed to facilitate the selection of four cases. Data were gathered through semistructured interviews from the principal and three to five teachers at each school. The data from each interview were developed through content analysis and then examined in relation to all other interviews in a cross-case analysis.

The results presented fundamental attitudes, behaviors, and practices principals used in fostering collective efficacy. Principals held attitudes that student success was a top priority, as well as attitudes of responsibility, caring, shared purpose, confidence, and collaboration. Principal behaviors included supporting teachers, communicating, knowing teachers, and modeling desired behaviors. Principal practices included establishing an environment of openness and support, establishing shared expectations, facilitating teacher voice, providing opportunities to collaborate, and promoting continuous learning.

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