Preconditions for the Diffusion of Innovations in Social Pedagogical Assistance in Schools

Abstract

Innovations in social pedagogical assistance in schools are important for ensuring equal opportunities in education for all social groups, especially for children from disadvantaged social, economic and cultural (SEC) backgrounds, to address the issue of quality and accessible teaching and learning. National school quality reports point to the insufficient implementation and diffusion of innovations in schools. Scientific literature indicates that educators-innovators are important for the diffusion of educational innovations in schools, so they need appropriate conditions created for them to disseminate the innovations in communities. The aim of this research is to identify preconditions for the diffusion of social pedagogical assistance (SPA) innovations in secondary schools. The qualitative research (interviews with social pedagogues) has identified preconditions for the diffusion of SPA innovations in schools: the constant self-reflection of social pedagogues, an enabling (creative) environment, the opportunity to experiment and see the value of innovation, with sufficient time allowed for this collegial support as well as constructive and timely feedback from the school administration.