Application of Complexity theory to Educational decision-making process: A model for democratic school change

Abstract

This paper attempts to apply the Complexity Theory as nonlinear dynamics system to educational decision-making process as a metaphor. Different from conventional form of linear and static approaches, the chaotic characters of the Complexity Theory provide nonlinear, dynamic, and creative ways of decision-making process. For the application, this paper adopted three major variables from the Complexity Theory: attractors, bifurcations, and the fractal structure. Based on the three concepts, this paper applied the theoretical implications of the Complexity Theory to a schools case, La Escuela Fratney school, and developed a model for democratic school change. Finally, the implications of this modeling and the application are discussed. This suggested model could broaden the horizon of schools policy-making practices in more democratic ways, facilitated by diverse, open, and self-regulative movements, rather than linear, directive, and hierarchical processes.