THE ORGANIZATION AND ADMINISTRATION OF SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN NEW ZEALAND: PROBLEMS, DILEMMAS AND RESPONSE

Abstract

Using material from contemporary New Zealand experience as a case study, this paper presents a functional analysis of the organizational problems facing secondary schools, develops a typology of dilemmas posed as a result of these problems, and discusses the manner in which various educational agencies, including the central Department, Teachers' Organizations and the recent Educational Development Conference have attempted to persuade schools to resolve these dilemmas in particular ways. Comments are also made on the internal characteristics of schools which may influence their resolution of these dilemmas in different ways thus leading to a growing heterogeneity within the state educational system.