School Organizational Development Through Action Research and Basic Assumptions

Pengembangan Organisasi Sekolah melalui Penelitian Tindakan dan Asumsi-Asumsi Dasar

Abstract

This study was an original research article that aimed to analyze school organizational development based on action research
and basic organizational assumptions at MAN 4 Agam and SDN 37 Pasar Bukit. The study was conducted in response to the need for schools to adapt to organizational change demands related to effectiveness, collaboration, and alignment of organizational values. A descriptive qualitative approach with a comparative design was employed. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with educational staff and school management, as well as non-participatory observations to examine work practices and organizational dynamics in both schools. The findings showed that the implementation of action research supported schools in identifying organizational problems, designing improvement actions, and conducting reflective evaluations in a systematic and sustainable manner. The results also indicated that basic organizational assumptions, including work values, communication patterns, and decision-making practices, played a significant role in facilitating or constraining organizational development. Comparative analysis revealed differences in organizational culture and implementation practices between the two schools, which influenced the effectiveness of the change process. The study concluded that school organizational development became more effective when action research was implemented consistently and aligned with the school’s basic organizational assumptions. These findings contributed both theoretically and practically to understanding organizational development in educational institutions, particularly in supporting participatory and reflective change processes.