| Abstract: | On the basis of previous analyses of a mental hospital and a university graduate program, 5 a priori dimensions characteristic of innovative organizations were postulated. A Likert-type scale measuring members' perception of their organizations on these dimensions was developed and piloted with teachers and students in a traditional and an innovative secondary school. The scale was then refined and administered to 1,899 additional Ss in 6 traditional high schools. A factor analysis of the responses revealed a major factor (support of creativity) and 2 smaller factors (tolerance of diversity and feelings of ownership). Reliable factor indices were created for the final 61-item instrument, and a validity study was conducted with 2 additional innovative schools. Results indicate significant differences on the scale between respondents from innovative and traditional schools. The results and implications are discussed and suggestions made for further use of the scale. (15 ref) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved) |
