Strategic Planning for International Schools in Turbulent Environments: A Contingency Approach

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to identify a strategic planning model that would be best suited for schools which operate in turbulent environments, where it is likely that incidents and events would significantly effect operations and planning. Considerable work has been completed in the area of strategic planning for organisations that operate within turbulence or environmental uncertainty. The term strategic planning has been subsumed by other terms such as strategic thinking, strategic management, and adaptive strategies that accommodate for the unpredictability within which organisations may operate and offer new approaches for continuous improvement, efficiency and effectiveness. However, approaches to strategic planning may not necessarily be suitable for organisations that operate under extreme levels of turbulence, whereby major incidents are likely to occur which may upset any long term planning. The American International School in Gaza is one such institution, where the current political, economic and social issues make it very difficult to implement strategic planning. The methodological approach undertaken incorporates a case study analysis based on action research as an active participant, (while working as an administrator at the American International School in Gaza), as well as a reflective observer (after an emergency evacuation from the region in 2006). This research proposes a modified 'strategic contingency planning' model for schools and organisations that operate in turbulent environments. This model identifies key factors required for an organisation to best prepare for action when operating under difficult situations. The model has been developed and framed against the issues and difficulties encountered at the American International School in Gaza from 2003 to 2006.