Dynamics of Trust and Faculty Involvement in Community College

Dynamics of Trust and Faculty Involvement in Community College by Lenora Sotlar Clouse MEd, Xavier University, 2000 BA, University of Kentucky, 1997 Dissertation Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy Psychology Walden University October 2019 Abstract The complex dynamics of the phenomenon of trust, defined as a psychological state where one is willing to accept vulnerability based upon the positive expectations of a specific other or others, and the influence trust has on faculty involvement in institutional decision-making were explored in this case study. Faculty involvement is a key element of institutional success, yet many faculty at community colleges are not satisfied withThe complex dynamics of the phenomenon of trust, defined as a psychological state where one is willing to accept vulnerability based upon the positive expectations of a specific other or others, and the influence trust has on faculty involvement in institutional decision-making were explored in this case study. Faculty involvement is a key element of institutional success, yet many faculty at community colleges are not satisfied with their involvement or choose to remain uninvolved. Although researchers have established a substantial body of research on trust in organizations, a gap remains regarding the role trust plays in community college faculty involvement in key decision-making. The purpose of the current research was to address this gap by exploring the faculty experience of trust within the context of the unique social structure of 1 specific community college. The research question prompted an exploration of 1 specific college’s complex social and organizational structures by examining organizational charts and documents, while semistructured interviews with a purposeful sampling of 20 faculty members allowed for insight into the unique perspectives of community college faculty. Data were analyzed using the Stevick-Colaizzi-Keen method looking for emergent themes. It was indicated that trust dynamics play a role in faculty involvement in decision-making. Themes emerged that support 3 types of trust as 5 facets of trust that are part of the faculty experience within the specific case. Results can be used to contribute to positive social change by influencing continuous improvement efforts in higher education, improving institutional effectiveness. Dynamics of Trust and Faculty Involvement in Community College by Lenora Sotlar Clouse MEd, Xavier University, 2000 BA, University of Kentucky, 1997 Dissertation Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy Psychology Walden University October 2019 Dedication I would like to dedicate this work to all of the men and women who have dedicated themselves and their careers to working in higher education. Institutions of Higher Education (IHEs) are unique organizations with their own set of challenges and rewards. The relationships that are developed within and among staff, faculty, administrators, and students are what fuel progress and prosperity both for the institution and for each individual. Learning is what keeps us all going. I would also like to dedicate this to my mother who taught me the importance of obtaining higher education and who has inspired all of my educational pursuits. Acknowledgments I want to thank my husband, Jeremy, for his persistent support and encouragement throughout this extremely long process. I would have not been able to do it without him. To my loving children; Isabella, Eli, Ben, and my beautiful stepdaughters, Gwyneth, Gracie, and Gretta, I hope this accomplishment is a lesson to never give up on your dreams and to want what you deserve. To my Chairperson, Dr. Elisabeth Weinbaum, you were there with continuous support, encouragement, and constructive feedback even when I was ready to give up. Your wisdom and patience were invaluable to me. To all of my participants, your words and experiences are valid and important beyond this body of work. You have made significant contributions to the college you serve, and you have helped change the lives of your students.