Images of the school – Images of the organisation. The uses of imagery in the structuring of educational organisations

Abstract

Abstract. While the use of concrete imagery enjoys widespread approval in teaching methodology in schools, its value also extends to other disciplines, such as organisational science. Within the concept of “organisation” these two perspectives merge, insofar as schools themselves are educational organisations. This article begins by discussing reasons for considering images useful in both contexts. Then typical images from within organisational science, on the one hand, will be compared with pedagogical images on the other. Finally, the potential usefulness of this approach for the organisational structuring of schools will be assessed, with particular emphasis upon the way the images of learners are affected by those of the organisation and the school.

Keywords: school, organisation, school development