EDUCATIONAL PRACTITIONERS’ ATTITUDES TOWARDS CHANGE: CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES FOR IMPLEMENTING THE MODEL “SCHOOL AS A LEARNING ORGANISATION” IN GENERAL EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS IN LATVIA

Abstract

In contemporary society, constant dynamic change presents a challenge that should be perceived as a determinant factor leading to progress. The aim of this study was to explore the extent to which educational practitioners in general education institutions in Latvia are prepared for change. Additionally, the study seeks to identify the main enabling factors and obstacles in implementing the “School as a Learning Organisation” (SLO) model in general education in Latvia. That was achieved through quantitative data analysis from various perspectives, such as comparing data based on the type and size of educational institutions, as well as the positions and seniority of employees. Research data were collected using a web-based survey designed and maintained through QuestionPro. The final analytic sample comprised 671 respondents from 62 general education institutions in Latvia. The research results revealed that educational practitioners in Latvia, including leading, teaching, and supporting staff from general education institutions, are open to changes, new practices, and innovations. However, there were exceptions influenced by the educational practitioners' seniority and position, institution size, and type. These factors could both positively and negatively predict employees' attitudes towards change. A positive attitude towards change among teaching staff is a crucial element for the successful implementation of educational reforms in Latvia, such as the adoption of the SLO model. To foster a positive organizational culture, school leaders must provide supportive and transformative leadership, which is crucial for employees' positive attitude towards change. Keywords: attitude towards change, influencing factors, general education, innovations in education, school as a learning organisation