PARTICIPATORY MANAGEMENT IN THE DECISION-MAKING PROCESS IN EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS

Abstract

The present research work is entitled "Participatory Management in the Decision-Making Process in Educational 

Institutions" and aims to analyze how participatory management influences decision-making in educational settings. The specific objectives are to identify the participation mechanisms used, characterize the predominant leadership models, and describe the challenges faced in implementing this approach. The central research question is: What are the challenges in implementing participatory management in the decision-making processes of educational institutions? The methodology adopted is qualitative in nature, based on a bibliographic review, direct observation, and document analysis. These methods made it possible to understand how participatory management is conceived and applied in institutional practice. The results indicate that, despite the theoretical recognition of the importance of participation, many institutions still adopt centralized and hierarchical management models. Among the main challenges are resistance to change, lack of managerial training, and the absence of adequate spaces for dialogue and collective deliberation. It was also observed that predominant leadership models tend to be authoritarian, hindering the construction of a more democratic organizational culture. It is concluded that the effective implementation of participatory management requires both structural and cultural changes, with investments in training, communication, and institutional policies that value participation. This approach significantly contributes to strengthening school management, promoting a more inclusive and collaborative environment.