Darla J. Twale

The Promise of Mixed Methods: Discovering Conflicting Realities in the Data.

The purpose of our article is to illustrate the use of mixed methods research as necessary to uncover maximum information and perspective, increase corroboration of the data, and render less biased and more accurate conclusions. This study used the case study method to closely examine the people, issues, programmes and topics related to the implementation of service learning at the health professions college. Using document analysis, Stages of Concern Questionnaire, and faculty and administrative interviews, the mixed method approach allowed the researchers to use both quantitative and qualitative data to answer the research questions. The data gathered in this mixed method manner assisted the change process of institutionalization of service learning in this College.

Gender Comparisons of NASPA Membership

Using NASPA membership directories as reference points, the author shows that women have assumed senior level administrative positions, but still occupy a disproportionate number of nurturing roles in student affairs.

Entering the Magic Circle: Building Bridges Through A Religious Mission That Guides Professionalization

The purpose of this article is to articulate the means by which the professionalization process in our college student personnel program at a private, church-related institution is operationalized. Discussed are the religious mission, how it is translated into the program goal of professionalism, and what implications the process has for other institutions.

The Case of Trinity University: Collegial Rift, Mission Drift, Corporate Shift.

The case of Trinity University is an ideal way to introduce graduate students in educational leadership preparation programs to the university culture and how it shapes the graduate curriculum, faculty expectations for student outcomes, and professional socialization processes. Master’s and doctoral students who take courses related to cultural issues, organizational behavior and change, and management and administrative strategies will have an opportunity to discuss these same processes at the postsecondary level and note how they compare and contrast to the cultural and organizational environments in the public schools. What students experience in both worlds (K-12 and higher) can inform their knowledge of leadership, mission, management, and culture. This case encourages students to address cultural change and the effects it will have on leader preparation in terms of the “alignment between espoused cultural values and actual management practices... [and how it can]... improve organizational performance” (Smart & St. John, 1996, p. 232).