Effective leadership behaviours and information culture in the higher education institution

Abstract

PurposeThis study aims to increase the understanding of the connection between effective leadership behaviours and information culture in the higher education institution (HEI).Design/methodology/approachA qualitative case study was conducted at one department of an HEI in Estonia. This study used semi-structured interviews and document analysis for data collection. The hypothesis-generating technique applying grounded theory analysis was used for data analysis.FindingsThe information culture of the department was a multiple culture with mixed attributes from the relationship-based culture and the risk-taking culture. Six main effective leadership behaviours within the department were identified, namely, communicating well about the direction the department is going, having a clear sense of direction and strategic vision, providing resources for and adjusting workloads to stimulate scholarship and research, making academic appointments that enhance department’s reputation, allowing the opportunity to participate in key decisions and encouraging open communication and creating a positive and collegial work atmosphere. The main hypotheses that illustrate the influence of effective leadership behaviours on information culture were generated.Practical implicationsThe findings of this study can inform the training of future leaders in HEIs.Originality/valueThere is a lack of research in higher education that focuses on the relationship between leadership and information culture, and this research fills this gap.