Management System Design for a Learner Centered School

Abstract

This study examines how a learner centred school defines and specifies its management decision support system, and how it implements the system on an ongoing basis. A qualitative single case study was designed to investigate and understand both the substance and process of this management system. A checklist of criteria was used in classroom observations to first validate the purposefully selected Montessori school as learner centred. Additionally, semi-structured interviews and school documentation review were used in the actual management system investigation. The findings indicate a tightly integrated management system comprised of few decision support elements, each clearly focused on the student. These elements map into a model comprised of distinct connections and linkages, where the teaching and learning processes represent the core element and drive and define the remaining system elements. Relationships, resources and particular organizational arrangements were identified as factors critical to successful implementation of this decision support system.