Shared Power Through Negotiation in Higher Education

Abstract

Negotiation has to do with power, the use of power, and the distribution of power. This paper discusses empowerment in higher education, suggests a redistribution and equalization of power and calls for increased collegiality through social exchange in the academic community, rather than adhering to the implementation of the typical corporate model. Literature is cited from several different social science disciplines that strongly supports the position that the successful performance of job-related tasks, and particularly job satisfaction, are directly associated with a sharing of power and decision making within organizational structures. The literature is then related to organizational relationships between faculty and administrators, with special attention given to physical education faculty, to demonstrate that sharing power is a necessary ingredient if departments, colleges, and universities are to maximize their attempts at fulfilling their missions.