Degrees of Democracy Framework : A Review of its Use and Impact

Abstract

The degrees of democracy framework (DoDF) was designed as an analytical research instrument that could also be used to facilitate reflection and dialogue by anyone concerned with education (school leaders, teachers, students, parents and others) and democratic leadership in any kind of organisation. The model of holistic democracy, as developed in work by Professor Philip Woods, is the foundation of the framework. Published work on holistic democracy and the DoDF includes: Woods, P. A. (2011) Transforming Education Policy: Shaping a Democratic Future, Bristol: Policy Press; Woods, P. A. and Woods, G. J. (2012) Degrees of School Democracy: A Holistic Framework, Journal of School Leadership, 22 (4): 707-732. The purpose of this report is to - provide insight into the impact and usefulness of the degrees of democracy framework (DoDF) (which emerged from research) for educational and professional development purposes - stand as a record of the first 18 months of its use - provide an information source for professional development providers, academics, practitioners (school leaders, teachers and others), policy makers and researchers - make recommendations for further developing the framework and its use for educational and professional development purposes and for future research.