Defense Date

11-15-2000

Graduation Date

Fall 2000

Availability

Immediate Access

Submission Type

dissertation

Degree Name

EdD

Department

Interdisciplinary Doctoral Program for Education Leaders (IDPEL)

School

School of Education

Committee Chair

Gary Shank

Committee Member

Rodney Hopson

Keywords

community, efficacy, fable, lesson, narrative, object

Abstract

In order to understand the economically, and academically distressed community, we must understand it on its own terms. This study used the narrative form as the source of inquiry using the fabulistic form as methodology. The novelist Calvino has served as a guide to this narrative method. Narrative is employed to gain knowledge of the community and this study examines how the community expresses shared values through fabulistic narratives. The problem examined in this study is discovery of narratives and fables of past and present successes. The research examines how the community views itself, its role in the educational process, the way education and knowledge are used, and how education is viewed within the community and in the family unit in an economically distressed community. The data was gathered by conducting interviews with a former superintendent of a distressed district. These 10 fables provide us with insight into finding wisdom in place and how it is used in the world. Findings indicate that the values of the community have changed. Educational reforms should recognize those changes. The fables clearly indicate the importance of the work ethic, discipline and commitment, and respect for authority within the community. Implications for educational reforms and suggestions for future research topics are identified.

Format

PDF

Language

English

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