A1 Journal article (refereed)
Expectations of leadership in the changing context of Finnish early childhood education (2023)
Kupila, P., Fonsén, E., & Liinamaa, T. (2023). Expectations of leadership in the changing context of Finnish early childhood education. Teaching and Teacher Education, 133, Article 104277. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tate.2023.104277
JYU authors or editors
Publication details
All authors or editors: Kupila, Päivi; Fonsén, Elina; Liinamaa, Tarja
Journal or series: Teaching and Teacher Education
ISSN: 0742-051X
eISSN: 1879-2480
Publication year: 2023
Publication date: 02/08/2023
Volume: 133
Article number: 104277
Publisher: Elsevier
Publication country: United Kingdom
Publication language: English
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tate.2023.104277
Publication open access: Openly available
Publication channel open access: Partially open access channel
Publication is parallel published (JYX): https://jyx.jyu.fi/handle/123456789/88789
Abstract
In this study, we explore the discourses and dilemmas embodying Finnish early childhood education leaders' expectations regarding their leadership. The data were collected in three focus group interviews with leaders in three municipalities. Four discourses were identified: the discourse of leadership in change, the discourse of leading an expert organisation towards a vision, the discourse of leadership style, and the discourse of leading the ECE mission. Contextual change is the framework in which expectations occur. Leaders experience many dilemmas affecting their leadership. The dilemmas focused on leading change in the administrative hierarchy, leading an expert organisation, approachability, and leading according to one's mission. Leaders themselves should identify the dilemmas. Strengthening leadership in a changing work context requires the identification of dilemmas.
Keywords: leadership (activity); leadership (properties); managers and executives; early childhood education and care; expectations; discourse
Free keywords: leadership; contextual change; expectation; early childhood education; discourse
Contributing organizations
Ministry reporting: Yes
VIRTA submission year: 2023
JUFO rating: 3
