ABSTRACT
There has been pervasive curiosity about culture in many fi elds of research; education proves no exception. Researchers studying educational administration have been, and continue to be, profoundly interested in culture, particularly as it relates to school reform and school improvement initiatives. Here, we offer an historical overview of both organisational and educational administration research focused on educational organisations and school culture. Following an examination of the historical context for culture research, we explore how culture has come to be defi ned in organisations and in schools. Culture, given these defi nitions, provides the backdrop for examining other dimensions of organisational research applicable to schools. We conclude the chapter with a discussion of contemporary perspectives and uses of culture studies in educational administration and leadership.
