Approaches for Developing school administrators of schools under Thailand Association Montessori Schools in Bangkok based on the concept of Organizational Resilience

Abstract

This qualitative research aimed to study the conditions, challenges, and development approaches of school administrators under the Montessori Schools Association of Thailand in Bangkok, based on the concept of organizational resilience. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with nine participants, consisting of school administrators and teachers from three schools, selected using purposive sampling. For teacher participants, representatives were nominated by the administrators of each school. The research instrument used was a semi-structured interview, and the data were analyzed using content analysis. The findings revealed two main areas. First, the conditions and challenges of school administrators in relation to organizational resilience were categorized into five key aspects. (1) Anticipation and preparedness. Administrators and teachers emphasized the importance of comprehensive risk assessment and systematic readiness through the observation of both local and international information, timely and prudent decision-making, and context-sensitive planning. (2) Response capability. Administrators developed and applied strategies for emergency response, including crisis management, flexible use of resources, and effective communication. (3) Adaptability. Administrators engaged in continuous process improvement through analysis and integration, addressing both student learning and school management. (4) Leadership and governance. School leaders were required to take on flexible and diverse roles depending on the situation, operating at both strategic and operational levels as facilitators, motivators, and capacity builders for their staff. (5) Community and stakeholder engagement. Despite limitations in community relationships, administrators made efforts to foster flexible learning communities that supported school recovery during times of crisis. Second, the development of school administrators under the Montessori Schools Association of Thailand in Bangkok followed various context-appropriate approaches, including training, study visits, experiential learning, coaching and mentoring, as well as supervision and follow-up. These methods contributed to strengthening leadership and enhancing the administrators’ capacity to manage their organisations with resilience in continuously changing contexts.