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Ineffective Communication in the Workplace

Dulce Maria Juarez

BASOL South Texas College

ORGL-4361-V02-Capstone II

Dr. Patricia Blanco

June 5, 2023
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Ineffective Communication in the Workplace

Communication serves as the lifeblood of any institution, and when it falters, it can lead

to misunderstandings, conflicts, and a breakdown in collaboration. Inadequate or ineffective

communication can have far-reaching consequences on the overall functioning and success of the

school. In an elementary school setting, where effective communication among teachers,

administrators, staff, and parents is paramount, addressing these communication issues becomes

crucial for fostering a supportive and productive learning environment. Clear and consistent

communication channels are essential to ensure that information flows smoothly and that all

stakeholders are well-informed and engaged. When communication is lacking or ineffective, the

consequences can be detrimental. Teachers may not receive important updates or guidelines from

administrators, leading to confusion and misalignment in instructional practices. Parents may

feel disconnected and uninformed about their child's progress, school events, or important

policies. Staff members may struggle to work cohesively as a team, hindering collaborative

efforts and impeding student success. Moreover, inadequate communication can result in missed

opportunities for sharing best practices, exchanging ideas, and implementing effective strategies.

It can also contribute to a lack of transparency, erode trust, and breed a sense of isolation among

stakeholders. To ensure that an elementary school thrives, it is imperative for leaders to

recognize and address these communication issues head-on. By establishing robust and efficient

communication systems, fostering open dialogue, and actively involving all members of the

school community in decision-making processes, leaders can lay the foundation for a

collaborative and harmonious environment. In doing so, they can enhance engagement, build

strong relationships, and ultimately create a nurturing and supportive atmosphere where students

can flourish academically, socially, and emotionally.

The Theory Background

Elton Mayo was an Australian psychologist and sociologist known for his work in the

Hawthorne Studies conducted from 1924 to 1932 at the Western Electric Hawthorne Works in

Chicago. Mayo's research focused on the social and psychological aspects of work and its impact

on productivity. The Human Relations Theory emerged from these studies, challenging the

traditional view that productivity is solely driven by economic factors. Mayo argued that social

and psychological factors, such as teamwork, communication, and employee satisfaction, greatly

influence productivity. In an elementary school context, the Human Relations Theory by Elton

Mayo can be seen in action when school administrators create opportunities for teacher

collaboration and open communication. For example, the school might implement regular team

meetings where teachers can discuss ideas, share best practices, and provide feedback to each

other. This collaborative environment fosters positive relationships among staff members,

enhances communication, and improves overall job satisfaction. As a result, teachers feel more

valued, motivated, and connected, which positively impacts their teaching effectiveness and

ultimately benefits student achievement.

Douglas McGregor was an American social psychologist and management theorist. He

developed the X&Y Theory, also known as McGregor's Theory of Motivation or Theory X and

Theory Y. McGregor's theory proposes two contrasting views of human behavior in the

workplace. Theory X assumes that employees are inherently lazy, dislike work, and need strict

supervision and external control. In contrast, Theory Y assumes that employees are self-

motivated, responsible, and capable of self-direction. McGregor argued that managers'

assumptions about employee behavior influence their leadership style and ultimately impact

employee motivation and performance. In an elementary school, the X&Y Theory proposed by
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Douglas McGregor can be illustrated through different management approaches and their impact

on teacher motivation. Suppose a school principal adheres to Theory X assumptions and believes

that teachers are inherently lazy and need strict control. In this case, the principal might closely

monitor teachers, micromanage their work, and rely heavily on external rewards and

punishments. As a result, teachers may feel demotivated, disengaged, and unfulfilled in their

roles.

Henri Fayol was a French mining engineer and management theorist. He developed the

Administrative Theory, also known as Fayolism or the 14 Principles of Management. Fayol's

theory focuses on the functions and principles of management necessary for effective

organizational performance. He proposed principles such as unity of command, division of work,

scalar chain, and centralization, among others. Fayol emphasized the importance of clear

communication, well-defined roles, and efficient coordination to ensure organizational success.

Henri Fayol's Administrative Theory can be applied to an elementary school by considering the

principle of unity of command. For example, the school principal ensures that each teacher

receives instructions and guidance from a single supervisor or administrator. This helps eliminate

confusion and conflicting directions, allowing teachers to focus on their assigned responsibilities

and perform their duties more effectively. Additionally, another principle of Fayol's theory, scalar

chain, can be seen in the hierarchical structure of an elementary school. The scalar chain

establishes a clear line of authority, where teachers report to department heads or grade-level

coordinators, who, in turn, report to the principal. This hierarchical structure ensures smooth

communication, efficient decision-making, and effective coordination within the school.

Three theories today. Current research on the Human Relations Theory focuses on its

relevance in contemporary workplace settings and its impact on employee well-being and
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organizational outcomes. Studies continue to highlight the importance of positive work

relationships, effective communication, and employee engagement. Researchers examine how

factors such as teamwork, social support, leadership styles, and organizational culture contribute

to employee satisfaction, motivation, and performance. Organizations today utilize Mayo's

principles to create collaborative work environments, promote employee well-being, and

enhance team effectiveness.

For example, companies may implement open communication channels, team-building

activities, and leadership development programs to foster positive relationships among

employees. Research emphasizes the significance of supportive management practices that value

employee contributions, encourage employee involvement in decision-making, and provide

opportunities for growth and development.

Contemporary research on the X&Y Theory, or McGregor's Theory of Motivation,

explores its implications for employee motivation, leadership styles, and organizational

performance. Current studies examine how different assumptions about employee behavior

influence leadership practices and employee engagement. Researchers investigate the impact of

Theory X and Theory Y assumptions on factors such as job satisfaction, work motivation,

commitment, and performance.

Organizations today use McGregor's theories to shape their leadership approaches and

create motivating work environments. They aim to adopt Theory Y assumptions by promoting

employee empowerment, autonomy, and participation in decision-making processes. This may

involve implementing flexible work arrangements, providing training and development

opportunities, and nurturing a culture of trust and collaboration. The research highlights the
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importance of aligning leadership styles with employee needs and motivations to foster a

positive organizational climate.

Current research on Fayol's Administrative Theory focuses on its relevance in modern

organizations and its impact on management practices. Researchers explore the applicability of

Fayol's principles in various contexts, including educational institutions, healthcare

organizations, and businesses. Studies examine how the principles of unity of command, scalar

chain, division of work, and others influence organizational structure, communication, decision-

making, and overall effectiveness.

Organizations today utilize Fayol's principles to guide their management practices and

improve organizational performance. They emphasize the importance of clear communication

channels, well-defined roles and responsibilities, efficient coordination, and effective decision-

making processes. Researchers highlight the need for adaptable and flexible approaches to

implement Fayol's principles in dynamic and complex organizational environments.

Overall, the current research on these theories emphasizes the importance of employee

well-being, motivation, and engagement, as well as the significance of effective communication,

collaboration, and leadership. Organizations today recognize the value of creating positive work

environments that promote teamwork, autonomy, and employee development, while also

ensuring clear organizational structure and efficient management practices.

Organization Background. Pearson Elementary is part of Mission Consolidated

Independent School District, located on the southwest area of Mission, TX. Pearson Elementary

was opened in August 1955 and it was named in honor of Mrs. Lucille Pearson, noted civic

worker, teacher, and principal at the East Side School and Roosevelt School from 1930 to 1946.
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This elementary currently has a total of 60 employees including administrators, teachers,

paraprofessionals, cooks, and custodians. Pearson Elementary has an average enrollment of 400

students per school year. Located at 315 Holland Ave, Mission TX. 78572.

One of the most important issues Pearson Elementary has is the inadequate and

ineffective communication between administrators, teachers, staff, parents, and students.

Applying foundational theories. To address the inadequate or ineffective communication

issue at Pearson Elementary, we can apply the Human Relations Theory by Elton Mayo as a

starting point. This theory can be utilized by creating a Communication-Friendly Environment.

School administrators can foster a positive and open communication climate by encouraging

administrators, staff, teachers, parents, and students to express their thoughts and concerns freely.

This can be done through regular meetings, open forums, and suggestion boxes, where everyone

feels comfortable sharing their ideas and feedback. The Human Relations Theory emphasizes the

significance of relationships in the workplace. School leaders can enhance interpersonal

relationships by promoting team-building activities and collaborative projects that bring different

stakeholders together, encouraging interaction, and building trust and camaraderie among staff,

teachers, parents, and students. Effective communication involves active listening.

Administrators should encourage and model active listening skills among staff, teachers, parents,

and students. Additionally, providing constructive feedback and acknowledging contributions

fosters a culture of open communication and continuous improvement. Also, offer professional

development opportunities that focus on communication skills, including workshops on effective

communication techniques, conflict resolution, and active listening. By investing in the

development of communication skills, administrators, staff, and teachers can improve their

ability to communicate effectively with one another and with parents and students.
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The Douglas McGregor - X&Y Theory addresses different assumptions about employee

motivation and behavior. Applying this theory, school leaders can adopt a Theory Y approach,

which assumes that employees are self-motivated and enjoy work when given autonomy,

responsibility, and opportunities for growth. By empowering staff, teachers, and administrators to

take ownership of communication processes and participate in decision-making, they are more

likely to be actively engaged in enhancing communication at Pearson Elementary.

Henri Fayol - Administrative Theory focuses on the principles of management and

organizational structure. Leaders can utilize this theory to establish clear lines of communication

and formal channels for information flow. By implementing effective administrative structures

and processes, such as regular staff meetings, clear reporting mechanisms, and efficient feedback

loops, administrators can streamline communication and ensure that information reaches the

relevant stakeholders in a timely manner.

By integrating the Human Relations Theory to foster a communication-friendly

environment, Douglas McGregor's X&Y Theory to empower staff, and Henri Fayol's

Administrative Theory to establish effective communication structures, Pearson Elementary can

address the inadequate or ineffective communication issue and create a more collaborative and

engaged school community.

Recommendations. To address the issue of inadequate or ineffective communication at

Pearson Elementary, I recommend applying the Human Relations Theory by Elton Mayo as the

best theory among the three selected. The Human Relations Theory emphasizes the importance

of interpersonal relationships and social factors in the workplace, which aligns well with the

need for improved communication among administrators, staff, teachers, parents, and students.

By implementing the Human Relations Theory, Pearson Elementary can create a

communication-friendly environment that fosters positive relationships and open dialogue

among all stakeholders. This approach will have several impacts on the department and

organization:

Improved Collaboration and Engagement: When staff, teachers, parents, and students feel

comfortable expressing their thoughts and concerns, they are more likely to engage in

collaborative efforts. This will enhance teamwork, encourage knowledge sharing, and promote a

sense of belonging and ownership within the school community. As a result, collaboration among

stakeholders will improve, leading to a more effective and efficient organization.

Enhanced Problem-Solving and Innovation: Effective communication allows for the

exchange of ideas and perspectives, which is crucial for problem-solving and innovation. By

promoting open dialogue and active listening, administrators can tap into the collective

intelligence of the staff, teachers, parents, and students. Diverse perspectives and ideas can lead

to innovative solutions and creative approaches to challenges faced by the school.

Increased Trust and Satisfaction: Transparent and effective communication builds trust

among stakeholders. When administrators actively listen and respond to the concerns and needs

of staff, teachers, parents, and students, it fosters a sense of trust and credibility. This, in turn,

enhances job satisfaction and commitment among employees and encourages parents to be more

involved in their child's education.

Enhanced Student Achievement: Effective communication between teachers,

administrators, and parents plays a crucial role in supporting student success. Clear and open

communication channels ensure that relevant information regarding student progress, needs, and
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interventions is shared promptly. This facilitates collaborative efforts to address students'

academic and social-emotional needs, leading to improved student achievement.

By applying the Human Relations Theory and creating a communication-friendly

environment, Pearson Elementary will benefit from improved collaboration, problem-solving,

trust, and student achievement. This recommendation aligns with the research on leadership

communication by Flore (2016) and Westfall (2018), which highlight the positive impact of

effective communication on employee engagement, organizational outcomes, and student

success. As a leader in the organization, implementing this theory will demonstrate my

commitment to fostering a positive and inclusive school culture that values open communication

and collaboration, ultimately benefiting the entire school community.

References

FLOREA, N. V., & (MANEA), R. G. (2016, May 1). Leadership communication- an efficient

way to motivate human capital – doaj. Management & Marketing.

https://doaj.org/article/16d6c3442509472cb34c631e3c8d89f8

Rodrigues, C. A. (2001). Fayol’s 14 principles of management then and now: a framework for

managing today’s organizations effectively.

Smith, J. H. (1998). The enduring legacy of Elton Mayo. Human Relations, 51(3), 221–249.

https://doi.org/10.1177/001872679805100302

Westfall, C. (2018). Leadership language: Using authentic communication to drive results.

Gildan Media.

YILDIRIM, İ., & ALBEZ, C. (2022). Investigation of school administrators’ assumptions

regarding management practices based on X-Y theory. International Journal of

Contemporary Educational Research, 9(4), 770–784.

https://doi.org/10.33200/ijcer.1092445