An Exploration of Integrated Management Factors for Small-Sized Secondary Schools in Northeast of Thailand

Abstract

This study explores the factors that influence integrated management from the experts’ perspective and assesses the related needs of practitioners for each factor. A total of five experts and 406 practitioners encompassing directors and teachers from small[1]sized secondary schools in the north-eastern region of Thailand, using purposive and stratified random sampling techniques respectively. A mixed-mode research design was employed, namely in-depth interviews and an online need assessment survey. A set of eight interview questions and a 19-items questionnaire were the instruments. The qualitative findings revealed that there are five factors of integrated management identified by the five experts, namely shared vision, flexible structure, management by integration team, cooperative coaching and mentoring, and change leadership. For each identified factor, the researchers evaluated the importance of the factor for integrated management and determined the associated needs from 406 practitioners’ perspectives. Finally, the researchers conclude with recommendations for practitioners to enhance integrated management.