Research Projects

Narottam Bhindi

Authentic Leadership

With Prof Patrick Duignan of the Australian Catholic University, the research on Authentic Leadership investigates the reasons behind the public cynicism about leadership across different organisations and people’s perceptions on what constitutes authentic leadership. The research has generated considerable data, which are being currently analysed. This research has generated refereed articles in two of the most respected journals in educational leadership, the Journal of Educational Administration; and Educational Management Journal, and three book chapters and workshops and seminars. We have already planned the structure of the book we intend to publish.

Spirituality in Leadership: The Missing Link?

In times of uncertainty, chaos and disillusionment society questions the integrity of its leaders. This research study, which I led with Rod Gerber, and Dan Riley and completed in 2002, investigated the relationship between spirituality and leadership. Our research

findings were presented at three conferences. We are embarking on a sequel to this research, and intend to use Professor Jerry Starratt, of Boston College, as a critical friend. The findings of the research connect with the spiritual imperative identified by Bhindi and Duignan’s Authentic Leadership. A book is planned.

Charting Children’s Spiritual Intelligence (URC start-up Grant: $7500)

This project by Wilma Vialle, Narottam Bhindi, and Jillian Trezise aims to investigate Children’s spiritual intelligence and enable us to develop a theoretical model of children’s spiritual development from Kindergarten to Year 6. Current psychological models of cognitive, emotional or moral development are inadequate for conceptualising children’s spirituality. The data has been collected and analysis will begin shortly.

Developing a Framework for Effective Teacher Mentoring (UOW Faculty of Education Research Grant: $6,000)

This research study aims to gain a clearer understanding of the way mentoring is understood and practised in NSW schools and to formulate an alternative research informed framework to guide school leaders in initiating and strengthening effective teacher mentoring practices. Bhindi, Cambourne and Kiggins lead this research study. Currently we are finalising the list of sample schools.

Leadership Competencies Across organisations: Implications for Leadership Development

I am doing this research with George Kriflick of the Graduate School of Business and Professional Development. This research project aims to investigate the extent to which leadership competencies are site-specific or generic and therefore able to be transferred or transported across different workplaces. The findings of this study are likely to have important implications for how workplace leaders and managers are selected, appointed and professionally developed. Data are currently being collected.

Steven Dinham