Author Description
Context is a central concept in organization and management studies, yet it is often used in a generalized, unspecific manner. This book offers an interactionist view on context as a dynamic, relational, and socially enacted phenomenon. It explores context in action and the theoretical, methodological, and analytical consequences of this approach through a collection of reflections and research experiences from the dynamic field of health care. In the opening chapters, the editors present their framework for studying context in action and outline three main approaches, centered on the following questions: What constitutes context for a phenomenon or an event? How do actors understand, experience, and engage with context? How do contexts change and what is the role of actors in such processes? Context and action are then explored through a range of topics such as enactment and organizational change, policy implementation, executive work, strategic change, materiality, technology, patients and relatives' perspectives, integrated care, quality improvement, and health care support work. Relevant to both management researchers and practitioners, this volume provides a definition of context as theoretical construct based on interactionist and process based perspectives, and a practical framework for studying context in action which the reader can use in their own work.
Menrva's Summary
THE THESIS
This book investigates how to move beyond generalized definitions of context by proposing an interactionist framework for studying it as a dynamic, socially enacted phenomenon. Authors Ninna Meier and Sue Dopson, both established scholars in organizational management, synthesize theoretical perspectives with empirical research to provide a robust methodology. They argue that context is not a static background but a relational construct that actors actively shape and experience within complex environments like health care.
THE SCOPE MAP
What You Will Find
- An interactionist framework for defining and analyzing context in organizational settings.
- Three distinct analytical approaches focused on the constitution of context, actor engagement, and the process of contextual change.
- Case studies covering policy implementation, executive work, materiality, and patient-centered care.
Scope Limits
- The text focuses primarily on health care environments and may not address every nuance of context in unrelated industries.
- It does not provide a singular, universal definition of context, but rather a methodology for researchers to define it within their own specific studies.
THE AUTHORITY PERSPECTIVE
Experts identify this volume as a practical resource for management researchers seeking to operationalize abstract concepts in their own work. Readers frequently note the academic density of the prose, which serves as a rigorous guide for those conducting qualitative organizational research.
Page Count:
288
Publication Date:
2019-01-01
ISBN-10:
019252772X
ISBN-13:
9780192527721
Special Topics
Health Care
Operations Research
Allied Health
Management
Sociology
Medical