Three-Level Hierarchical Linear Modeling Analyses of the Relationship Between Political Culture and Teacher Autonomy

Abstract

Research suggests that the limits of teacher autonomy are defined by educational policies. Educational policies, however, are driven by political culture. This study examines the relationship between teacher autonomy and political culture and how this relationship varies with teacher and school characteristics. Using the 2011–2012 Schools and Staffing Survey, the three-level hierarchical linear modeling (HLM) analysis demonstrates that political culture was significantly associated with teacher autonomy. According to Elazar’s three-part cultural typology, the moralistic culture is associated with a higher level of teacher autonomy, the traditionalistic culture is associated with lower levels of teacher autonomy, and the individualistic culture is in-between. Also, the more traditionalistic the culture, the stronger the association between positive school climate and teacher autonomy. As teacher autonomy relates positively to teacher job satisfaction and retention, this study suggests that policy makers consider a moralistic approach in creating educational policies.