First-year experiences of associate deans: a qualitative, multi-institutional study
First-year experiences of associate deans: a qualitative, multi-institutional study
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Date
2014-02
Authors
White, Gary W.
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Citation
White, G. (2014). First-year experiences of associate deans: a qualitative, multi-institutional study. Research in Higher Education Journal, 22. http://www.aabri.com/manuscripts/131695.pdf
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Abstract
This study examines the first-year experiences of new associate deans at doctoral
granting, Research I universities. Participants were 24 associate deans from various disciplines
at three difference universities who had been in their positions for five years or less. Findings
show that the transition into the associate dean position is stressful and difficult, and that the first
year involves a great deal of on-the-job skill acquisition, learning to navigate the broader
organizational environment, dealing with significant changes in the nature of their interactions
with colleagues from their previous departments along with a great sense of loneliness and
isolation, and a need to establish new peer groups. However, nearly all report high job
satisfaction and a desire to remain in administration. Future study is necessary to examine how
these early experiences shape decisions to move into higher-level positions in higher education
administration.
Notes
Funding for Open Access provided by the UMD Libraries Open Access Publishing Fund.