Andrews University
Leadership Department
Nicole Benoit-Roy, Researcher and PhD Candidate
4150 Administration Dr.
Berrien Springs, MI 49104-0740
Research Title: Gossip and Its Broad Human Folly: A Qualitative Case Study Exploring the Actions Early Childhood Leaders Can Take in a Gossip-Fueled Culture Seeking Positive Solutions
Introduction of Researcher: I am Nicole (Nicky) Benoit-Roy, a PhD candidate in the K-12 Education program at Andrews University. If you have any questions about this research project, feel free to reach out to me at nicoleroy52@hotmail.com or 347-775-4589. You can also contact my dissertation chair, Dr. Bordes Henry-Saturne, at bordes@andrews.edu or 269-471-6702.
Invitation to Participate: You are invited to take part in this research study investigating the actions early childhood leaders can take to turn gossip into something positive. Your participation is sought because of your experience as an early childhood program leader who have transformed gossip into something positive.
Purpose of the Study The purpose of this qualitative case study is to 1) understand whether leaders have been able to
effectively transform gossip into something positive within their early childhood programs; 2) investigate how early childhood leaders' actions can turn a gossip-driven environment into a positive one by changing gossip into something positive; and 3) discover how gossip affects the environment in early childhood programs from different viewpoints.
Scope of Research The scope of this research explores what early childhood leaders do to transform gossip into something positive within their educational settings. Specifically, the study aims to explore the efficacy of leaders in transforming gossip into something positive and fostering a solution-oriented culture. By engaging with leaders in the early childhood sector through this study, the research seeks to clarify the strategies implemented by these leaders to combat the detrimental effects of gossip and promote a more harmonious work environment. Through this exploration, the research aims to contribute valuable insights into effective approaches for managing gossip and fostering a culture that turns gossip into something positive.
Explanation of Procedures This case study requires that 10 early childhood program leaders fill out an online questionnaire consisting of 10 questions. At the end of the questionnaire, you will be asked to share artifacts related to gossip, which may include writings, drawings, poems, or other artifacts via email if you have any. Following the questionnaire, you may be contacted to validate your responses if needed. If you decide to take part, you will only fill out the 1 questionnaire that is to be submitted by the end of this WEEK or SOONER.
Benefits of Study Participating in this research study offers the opportunity to contribute valuable insights into the dynamics of gossip within early childhood programs and its potential to be transformed into positive. By sharing your experiences and viewpoints, you can help inform the practices of early childhood program leaders and contribute to a better understanding of gossip dynamics in early childhood settings. Additionally, as a token of appreciation for your time and contribution, you can request a copy of the research report, if you wish. Your involvement in this study is entirely voluntary. If you have any questions or concerns about the study, please feel free to contact Nicole via email or phone number found at the beginning of this form.
Statement of Confidentiality To protect your confidentiality, all data collected during the study will be assigned pseudonyms and stored securely in electronic format using Google Drive. Access to this data will be restricted to myself. At the conclusion of the study, which will not exceed 5 months, all data will be discarded by deleting all electronic files.
**After submitting this form, you will find a link to the questionnaire. Thank you so much for your time.
