Diagnose resistance causes, then modify innovation attributes or their perceptions, using Rogers's influential attributes¶

Strategy · All strategies
Evidence · no claims cited

Description¶

When a change effort encounters resistance, the digest recommends using Zaltman and Duncan's Strategies for Planned Change to narrow down the causes, which may include perceived status erosion, lack of knowledge or skills, entrenched values, or lack of confidence in the system. One approach is to "modify or adapt the innovation's attributes" or change stakeholder perceptions, with Rogers's Diffusion of Innovations identifying the attributes that are generally most influential.

Design Implications¶

Context¶

Requirements¶

• Requires diagnosing the causes of resistance before selecting an approach, using tools such as Zaltman and Duncan's strategies

Constraints¶

• Even if the actual innovation cannot be altered, it may be possible to change the perceptions of the innovation among stakeholders

Target Learners¶

• change agents implementing innovations in schools and educational systems

Target Learning Goals¶

• overcoming stakeholder resistance to educational innovations

Related Strategies¶

• Address environmental deficiencies using Ely's Conditions for Change, such as leadership commitment and professional development

Examples¶

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Key Sources¶

• Ellsworth, James B. (2000). A Survey of Educational Change Models. ERIC Digest. https://eric.ed.gov/?id=ED444597