Organizational Behavior
Organizational Behavior
Organizational Behaviors has included two terms in it. Therefore, these two terms should be detailed
first before diving into the title in question.
Organization: It is a group of people who are collected to work for a common goal with
collective efforts. Organization works through two concepts i.e coordination and delegation
among its group members. Delegation is necessary to allocate group members with equal work
according to their capability, and coordination is required to achieve organizational goal with
precision.
Behavior: It is a verbal or physical response shown by a person because of the impact of his/her
surroundings. Individual behavior varies in accordance with their mental reactivity to
circumstances because of their deeply imbibed morals and value system.
Organizational behavior: Organizational behavior (often abbreviated OB) is a field of study that,
investigates the impact that individuals, groups, and structure have on behavior within
organizations, for the purpose of applying such knowledge toward improving an organization's
effectiveness. Or organizational behavior is the study and application of knowledge about how
people, individuals, and groups act in organizations.
b) Apply administrative theories to assess situation in education management
Administrative theories provide frameworks for understanding and improving management
practices in various organizational contexts, including education. Let's apply some key
administrative theories to assess situations in education management:
Classical Management Theory
Situation: An educational institution is experiencing inefficiencies in its administrative
processes, leading to delays in decision-making and resource allocation.
Assessment: Classical management theory emphasizes principles of organizational structure,
division of labor, and hierarchy. In this situation, administrators can assess the organization's
structure to identify areas of redundancy or overlap in roles and responsibilities. They can also
examine the delegation of authority and decision-making processes to streamline administrative
functions and improve efficiency.
Bureaucratic Theory:
Situation: A university faces challenges in handling bureaucratic procedures related to student
enrollment, financial aid, and academic regulations.
Assessment: Bureaucratic theory focuses on the formalization of rules, procedures, and roles
within organizations. In this situation, administrators can assess the clarity and consistency of
bureaucratic procedures to identify areas for simplification or automation. They can also evaluate
the responsiveness of bureaucratic structures to student needs and consider implementing
customer service-oriented approaches to enhance satisfaction and efficiency.
Human Relations Theory:
Situation: A high school is experiencing low morale among teachers and staff, leading to
decreased productivity and job satisfaction.
Assessment: Human relations theory emphasizes the importance of interpersonal relationships,
communication, and employee satisfaction in organizational performance. In this situation,
administrators can assess the school's culture and climate to identify factors contributing to low
morale, such as poor communication, lack of recognition, or ineffective leadership. They can
implement strategies to foster a positive work environment, such as promoting open
communication, providing opportunities for professional development, and recognizing
achievements.
Systems Theory:
Situation: A school district is struggling to address complex challenges related to student
achievement, teacher retention, and community engagement.
Assessment: Systems theory views organizations as interconnected and interdependent systems
with inputs, processes, outputs, and feedback loops. In this situation, administrators can assess
the various components of the education system, including curriculum, instruction, assessment,
leadership, and community partnerships. They can identify areas of alignment or misalignment
between these components and implement strategies to enhance coordination, collaboration, and
coherence across the system.
Contingency Theory:
Situation: A college faces challenges in adapting to changes in student demographics,
technological advancements, and workforce demands.
Assessment: Contingency theory emphasizes the importance of flexibility and adaptability in
response to changing environments and circumstances. In this situation, administrators can
assess the college's capacity to respond to external challenges and opportunities. They can
identify strengths and weaknesses in the institution's resources, capabilities, and structures and
develop strategies to capitalize on strengths and mitigate weaknesses in alignment with emerging
trends and needs.
By applying these administrative theories, education managers can gain insights into the
complexities of educational organizations and develop informed strategies for improving
administrative practices, enhancing organizational effectiveness, and achieving educational
goals.
c) Apply organization behavior theories to analyze the influence of politics, power, authority
in school administration.
In analyzing the influence of politics, power, and authority in school administration, we can
apply several organizational behavior theories:
Power and Influence
Theory Application: Power dynamics in school administration can be analyzed through French
and Raven's Five Bases of Power. These bases include legitimate power (derived from one's
position or title), reward power (based on the ability to provide rewards), coercive power (based
on the ability to impose punishments), referent power (based on charisma or personal
connection), and expert power (based on knowledge or expertise).
Analysis: School administrators may wield power through their formal positions (legitimate
power), control over resources or rewards (reward power), enforcement of rules or disciplinary
actions (coercive power), personal charisma or rapport with staff and students (referent power),
or specialized knowledge in education policy or pedagogy (expert power). The distribution and
use of power within the school administration can impact decision-making processes,
organizational culture, and staff morale.
Organizational Culture
Theory Application: Edgar Schein's Organizational Culture Model can be used to analyze the
influence of politics and power on the school's culture. Schein identifies three levels of
organizational culture: artifacts (visible symbols and behaviors), espoused values (stated beliefs
and norms), and underlying assumptions (unconscious beliefs and values).
Analysis: In school administration, the prevailing organizational culture may reflect power
dynamics and political influences. For example, a hierarchical culture with centralized decision-
making may signal a top-down approach to leadership, where authority is concentrated among a
few individuals. Alternatively, a collaborative culture that values shared decision-making, and
transparency may empower staff and distribute authority more evenly.
Conflict and Negotiation
Theory Application: Conflict resolution theories, such as Thomas-Kilmann Conflict Mode
Instrument (TKI), can be applied to analyze how politics and power dynamics influence conflict
management strategies in school administration. The TKI identifies five conflict-handling styles:
competing, collaborating, compromising, avoiding, and accommodating.
Analysis: In school administration, conflicts may arise due to competing interests, differing
priorities, or power struggles among stakeholders. Administrators may adopt different conflict
management styles based on their power and authority within the organization. For example,
administrators with high legitimate power may be more inclined to use a competing or
authoritative approach to resolve conflicts, while those with less power may rely on collaborative
or compromising strategies to negotiate solutions.
Leadership and Influence
Theory Application: Transformational leadership theory can be used to analyze how school
administrators exert influence and mobilize support for organizational goals. Transformational
leaders inspire and motivate followers through their vision, charisma, and ability to foster
positive change.
Analysis: School administrators who exhibit transformational leadership qualities can effectively
navigate political environments and leverage their power and authority to create a shared vision
for the school community. By engaging stakeholders, building trust, and promoting
collaboration, transformational leaders can mitigate power struggles, foster a culture of
teamwork, and empower staff to contribute to the school's success.
In summary, applying organizational behavior theories helps analyze the complex interplay of
politics, power, and authority in school administration. By understanding these dynamics,
administrators can effectively manage conflicts, cultivate a positive organizational culture, and
lead transformative change to improve educational outcomes for students and stakeholders.
Individual differences
Job satisfaction
Motivation
Empowerment
Behaving ethically
Organization behavior is the behavioral science. It has studied the behavior of an organization as a
whole. To study the organization, it applies the knowledge of behavioral science. Organization
behavior has tried to analyze how the organizational structure designs technology influence to the
organizational effectiveness. It tries to focus the relationship between organization and
environmental factor that directly or indirectly affect organization.
Organizational structure
Culture
Power and politics
Change and development
level
Productivity
Developing effective employees
Putting people first
Psychology has perhaps the first influence on the field of organizational behavior because it is a
science of behavior. A psychologist studies almost all aspects of behavior. Psychology deals with
studying human behavior that seeks to explain and sometimes change the behavior of humans
and other animals. Psychologists are primarily interested in predicting the behavior of
individuals to a great extent by observing the dynamics of personal factors.
Those who have contributed and continued to add to the knowledge of OB are teaching theorists,
personality theorists, counseling psychologists, and primary, industrial, and organizational
psychologists. The major contributions of psychology to OB are as follows; learning,
personality, perception, individual decision-making, performance appraised, attitude
measurement, employee selected, work design, motivation, emotions, work strain, and job
satisfaction.
Sociology
The major focus of sociologists is on studying the social systems in which individuals fill their
roles. The focus is on group dynamics. They have made their greatest contribution to OB through
their study of group behavior in organizations, particularly formal and sophisticated organizations.
Social Psychology
It has been defined as the scientific investigation of how individuals’ thoughts, feelings, and
behavior are influenced by the actual, imagined, or implied presence of others. It deals with how
people are affected by other individuals who are physically present or who are imagined to be
present, or even whose presence is implied.
In general, sociology focuses on how groups, organizations, social categories, and societies are
organized, function, and change. The major contributions of social psychology to OB are as
follows: behavior change, attitude change, communication, group process, group decision-
making.
Anthropology
The main aim of anthropology is to better understand the relationship between human beings and
the environment. Adaptations to surroundings constitute culture. The way people view their
surroundings is a part of the culture. Culture includes those ideas shared by groups of individuals
and languages by which these ideas are communicated. In essence, culture is a system of learned
behavior. Their work on culture and environment has helped us to understand differences
in fundamental values, attitudes, and behavior among people in different countries and within
different organizations. The major contributions of Anthropology in the field of OB are as
follows; comparative values, comparative attitudes, cross-culture analysis, organization
environment, and organization culture.
Political Sciences
In the business field, organizations want to attain supremacy in their field and indulge in
politicking activities to gain maximum advantages by following certain tasks like
Machiavellianism, coalition
formation, malpractices, etc. The main contribution of political science in the field of OB have
been concerned with, conflict, intra-organizational policies, and power.
Economics
Economics contributes to organizational behavior to a great extent in designing the
organizational structure. Transaction cost economics influence the organization and its structure.
Some of the reasons why Organizational behavior is an integral part of most management
programmes is as follows:
1. Understanding the relationship between an organization and its employees: The
study of Organizational behavior helps in the better understanding of the relationship
between an organization and its employees thereby helping in the development of better
Human Resource strategies in creating a better work environment, employee loyalty and
increasing the overall value of the human capital for the organization.
2. Motivating employees: Studying Organizational behavior help managers to better
understand their employees and motivate them, applying different motivational tools as
per individual requirements resulting in the better performance of the organization as a
whole.
3. Improving industrial/ labor relations: Organizational behavior help in understanding
the cause of a problem, predict its future course and control its consequences. As a result,
managers are able to maintain better relations with their employees by nipping any
problem in the bud.
4. Effective utilization of human resource: Knowledge of Organizational behavior help
managers to manage their employees effectively and efficiently, inspiring and motivating
them to higher efficiency and productivity through a better understanding and analysis of
human behavior.
5. Predicting human behavior: This is probably the most important reason for studying
Organizational behavior in management. Knowledge of Organizational behavior prepares
students to become better managers by becoming a student of human behavior from a
management perspective and thereby contributing to organizational effectiveness and
profitability.
OTHER MODELS IN ORGANIZATIONAL BEHAVIOR
Autocratic model
The autocracy model is based on the autocratic leadership style: The source of power is the
manager, and all interactions in the organization get through to the manager, and the employer
controls the decision-making process, defining policies and methods to achieve objectives, work
activities, relationships and decides compensations or deserts. In the autocratic model, the
leader/manager has the power to govern his subordinates with specific tasks. The management
believes that these leaders are very aware of what is best for the organization; therefore, the
workers must obey orders. Psychologically, such an attitude will produce dependence between
workers and supervisors.
Some important signs in the application of autocratic models are a) relying on power, b)
managerial orientation is authoritarian, c) employee orientation is obedience to commands, d) the
psychological level of employees depends on the boss, e) employees' life needs are unmet, and f)
the result is minimal performance.
The custodial model usually depends on economic resources (money). For example, managers
can stimulate employees by offering them facilities and benefits. However, in this model,
employees will not work as a team (less to share with others) because everyone will tend to focus
on themselves to benefit more than others. This model focuses on employee satisfaction and
better security. With this model, the need for security and employee benefits fullest.
In this model, a) employees depend highly on the organization, not the boss. As there is an
increase in the economic impact in remuneration and wages, all the workers will happily put in
more effort to gain more powerful rewards. this model relies on economic resources, b) manage-
rial orientation is money, c) employees' orientation is a sense of security and benefits, d) the
psychological development of employees depends on the attitude of the organization, e) the
needs of employees are fulfilled, and more safety is ensured, and f) performance results in the
form of passive cooperation.
The supportive model
The supportive model relies on leadership. For example, managers support their employees by
encouraging and supporting them to do a better job, get along with each other, and develop their
skills. Performance results will encourage increased productivity.
Its features are as follows; depending on the partnership, b) managerial orientation is teamwork,
c) employee orientation is responsible behavior, d) psychological outcomes such as self-
disciplined employees, e) the employee needs are met as an opportunity for self-actualization,
and
f) performance results are enthusiasm and cooperation.
The system model is based on confidence and self-motivation. Performance results will be better
than expected because employees will be committed to performing their duties to achieve
organizational goals. One of the most important things to consider is that managers and leaders
must clearly understand the nature of their organization before making any decision. In addition,
they should consider and look at changes in the environment and, of course, the needs of
employees so that they can have the best models used to obtain better results. This example of an
effort in some corporations, based on trust or community, where employees are motivated and
committed to achieving organizational goals.
The characteristics of the models of the system include a) depending on the level of trust,
community, and understanding, b) managerial orientation is a concern and compassion/mercy, c)
employee orientation is a psychological attitude of a sense of belonging, d) employees'
psychological outcomes are self-motivated, e) the unmet needs of employees who cover many
things, and f) performance results are in the form of passion/spirit, commitment, and
organizational goals.
The role of school administrators in maintaining order, discipline, and a conducive learning
environment is crucial. They wield power and authority to ensure the smooth functioning of the
educational institution. Here are some ways in which they exercise their influence:
Administrators create and implement policies and procedures that govern the behavior of
students, teachers, and staff within the school.
They define the code of conduct, dress code, attendance policies, and other rules that contribute
to a positive and safe learning environment.
2. Enforcing Discipline
School administrators have the authority to enforce disciplinary measures when rules are
violated. This may include issuing warnings, assigning detentions, or, in severe cases,
suspending or expelling students.
They work to address behavioral issues promptly to maintain order and ensure a focused learning
atmosphere.
3. Budget Allocation
Administrators hold authority over budget allocations, deciding how resources are distributed
among various departments and programs. This power influences the quality of education,
extracurricular activities, and the overall student experience.
Administrators play a key role in hiring and supervising teachers and other staff members. They
have the power to make decisions that impact the quality of education by selecting qualified
professionals and ensuring they adhere to educational standards.
5. Curriculum Oversight
They have the authority to make decisions about the curriculum, ensuring it aligns with
educational standards and meets the needs of the students. This includes choosing textbooks,
implementing teaching methods, and evaluating educational programs.
6. Safety and Security
Administrators are responsible for the safety and security of everyone within the school
premises. They make decisions regarding emergency procedures, implement security measures,
and collaborate with law enforcement when necessary.
They have the power to engage with parents and the community, fostering a positive relationship
and open communication channels. This involvement can influence the overall perception of the
school and garner support for educational initiatives.
8. Technology Integration
They play a crucial role in implementing inclusive education policies, ensuring that students with
special needs receive appropriate accommodations and support.
Interpersonal and group behavior within educational organizations is complex and dynamic,
influenced by various factors such as organizational culture, leadership, and individual
personalities. Analyzing these behaviors provides insights into the functioning of the educational
institution and can contribute to creating a positive and effective learning environment. Here are
key aspects to consider:
1. Communication Patterns
2. Leadership Styles
The leadership style of administrators influences group behavior. Autocratic leadership may
result in a hierarchical and less participative environment, while democratic leadership
encourages input from various stakeholders.
Effective leaders understand the needs of individuals and groups, promoting a shared vision and
fostering a positive organizational culture.
3. Conflict Resolution
Conflicts are inevitable in any organization. Analyzing how conflicts are managed within an
educational setting is crucial.
Constructive conflict resolution strategies, such as mediation and open dialogue, contribute to a
healthy work environment, while unresolved conflicts can negatively impact morale and
collaboration.
4. Team Dynamics
Effective teams exhibit cohesion, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to the organization's
mission.
5. Organizational Culture
The culture of an educational organization greatly influences interpersonal and group behavior.
A positive culture promotes collaboration, innovation, and a sense of belonging, while a negative
culture can lead to dissatisfaction and turnover.
Analyzing cultural elements such as values, norms, and traditions provides insights into the
overall health of the organization.
Analyzing interpersonal behavior includes understanding the factors that motivate individuals
within the organization. Teachers, administrators, and staff members are driven by various needs
and aspirations.
Recognizing and addressing individual motivations can contribute to higher levels of job
satisfaction, engagement, and overall well-being.
Educational organizations are diverse environments with individuals from various backgrounds.
Analyzing interpersonal and group behavior involves examining how inclusivity and diversity
are embraced.
Inclusive practices contribute to a rich learning environment, fostering respect for differences
and enhancing the overall educational experience.
8. Professional Development
9. Student-Teacher Relationships
Interpersonal behavior extends to relationships between students and teachers. Analyzing these
relationships involves understanding the dynamics that contribute to a positive and supportive
learning environment.
Healthy student-teacher relationships are crucial for student engagement, academic success, and
socio-emotional development.
Motivation plays a crucial role in educational organizations, influencing both students and
educators. Here are several reasons why motivation is important in the context of educational
institutions:
1. Enhanced Learning Experience
Motivated students are more likely to actively engage in the learning process. They show a
genuine interest in acquiring knowledge and skills, leading to a more enriching and effective
learning experience.
2. Academic Achievement
Motivated individuals tend to set and strive for academic goals. Higher levels of motivation are
often associated with increased effort, perseverance, and a commitment to achieving academic
success.
Motivated students are more likely to attend classes regularly and actively participate in
discussions and activities. This contributes to a more vibrant and participatory learning
environment.
Motivation is closely linked to self-efficacy and confidence. When students believe in their
ability to succeed, they are more likely to tackle challenges, take risks, and persist in the face of
setbacks.
Motivated students are generally more focused and well-behaved. They are less likely to engage
in disruptive behavior, contributing to a positive and disciplined school environment.
Educators who are motivated and passionate about their profession are likely to experience
higher job satisfaction. Motivated teachers are more likely to put in extra effort, engage in
professional development, and create innovative and effective teaching strategies.
Motivation plays a role in student retention. When students are motivated, they are more likely to
stay committed to their education, reducing dropout rates and increasing overall graduation rates.
9. Fostering a Culture of Continuous Learning
Motivation encourages a culture of continuous learning among both students and educators. A
motivated educational community is more open to embracing new ideas, adopting innovative
teaching methods, and adapting to evolving educational practices.
Motivation in education instills a sense of responsibility and a work ethic that is valuable for
future success. It prepares students to face challenges, set and achieve goals, and develop the
skills necessary for lifelong learning.
Motivation is linked to positive mental health outcomes. Students and educators who are
motivated tend to experience lower levels of stress, anxiety, and burnout, contributing to overall
well-being.
A motivated educational community often attracts support from parents, community members,
and stakeholders. Positive outcomes and a thriving educational environment contribute to a sense
of pride and support from the broader community.
The management of staff development is a critical aspect of ensuring the continued growth,
effectiveness, and adaptability of an educational organization. Here's an examination of key
elements related to the management of staff development:
1. Needs Assessment
The process begins with a thorough needs assessment. This involves identifying the skills,
knowledge, and competencies that staff members need to excel in their roles and contribute
effectively to the organization's goals.
Staff development initiatives should align with the overall goals and mission of the educational
organization. Clear alignment ensures that the skills and knowledge acquired by staff contribute
directly to the institution's success and the improvement of educational outcomes.
3. Strategic Planning
Successful management of staff development involves strategic planning. This includes setting
short-term and long-term goals, outlining the steps needed to achieve them, and allocating
resources effectively.
Planning should consider the evolving needs of the organization, changes in educational
practices, and emerging trends in the field.
Programs should be diverse to cater to different learning styles and preferences among staff
members.
5. Leadership Involvement
Leadership plays a crucial role in staff development management. Leaders should actively
support and participate in professional development activities, demonstrating a commitment to
continuous learning.
Inclusive leadership ensures that staff members feel supported and encouraged in their
development efforts.
6. Resource Allocation
Adequate resources, both financial and human, should be allocated to support staff development
initiatives. This includes funding for training programs, hiring external experts, and providing
time for staff to engage in learning activities.
Regular feedback and evaluation mechanisms are essential to assess the effectiveness of staff
development initiatives. This involves collecting input from participants, analyzing the impact on
job performance, and making adjustments as needed.
Evaluation should be a continuous process, allowing for iterative improvements to the staff
development strategy.
Embracing innovation and integrating technology in staff development can enhance the learning
experience. Online platforms, virtual training, and other technological tools provide flexibility
and accessibility for staff members.
Recognizing and rewarding staff for their commitment to professional development creates a
positive culture of continuous learning. Incentives, such as certifications, promotions, or special
projects, can motivate staff to actively engage in development opportunities.
Management of staff development should be inclusive, considering the diverse needs and
backgrounds of staff members. Equity considerations involve ensuring that development
opportunities are accessible to all, regardless of their role or position within the organization.
Staff development should be linked to succession planning. Identifying and nurturing future
leaders within the organization ensures continuity and a smooth transition in leadership roles.
Collaboration with external partners, educational institutions, and industry experts can enrich
staff development initiatives. Partnerships provide access to a broader range of resources and
expertise.
Challenge: Lack of alignment between the organizational development initiatives and the
overall strategic plan can hinder progress and result in fragmented efforts.
Positive: Strong and visionary leadership is critical for successful organizational development.
Leaders who champion change, foster a positive culture, and provide direction contribute to the
institution's growth.
Positive: A positive organizational culture that values collaboration, innovation, and continuous
improvement is conducive to successful development. A supportive climate encourages staff and
stakeholders to actively engage in improvement initiatives.
Challenge: Negative or resistant organizational culture can create barriers to change and hinder
the acceptance of new practices.
5. Professional Development
Challenge: Resistance to change, outdated practices, and a lack of willingness to innovate can
stagnate organizational development efforts.
Challenge: Inadequate assessment tools or a failure to use data for decision-making can result in
a lack of accountability and hinder improvement efforts.
8. Resource Allocation
Positive: Effective resource allocation, including funding, time, and personnel, is crucial for
organizational development. Adequate investment in technology, infrastructure, and professional
development contributes to sustainable growth.
Challenge: Limited resources, budget constraints, or misallocation of funds can impede the
successful implementation of development initiatives.
Positive: Organizational development should prioritize inclusivity and equity. Institutions that
address diversity, equity, and inclusion concerns create a positive and supportive environment
for all stakeholders.
Challenge: Neglecting diversity and inclusion considerations can lead to disparities and hinder
the overall progress of the organization.
Positive: Collaboration with external partners, such as businesses, community organizations, and
other educational institutions, can enrich organizational development efforts. Partnerships
provide additional resources and diverse perspectives.
Challenge: Lack of collaboration or ineffective partnerships may limit the institution's ability to
leverage external expertise and resources.