Abstract:
This qualitative study examines the phenomenon of discreet dissension in the
administration of academe through literature review and the focused reflections of retired,
senior administrators of postsecondary institutions in Ontario. Discretionary decision
making is a large component of senior administrative positions. At times, senior
administrators use their discretion to engage in institutionally endorsed behaviour to
fulfill institutionally sanctioned objectives. At other times, senior administrators use their
discretion to engage in dissenting courses of action, contrary to the prescribed and
codified policies, procedures, and norms of the institution in order to achieve
institutionally endorsed objectives and/or to achieve objectives congruent with individual
values. Discreet dissension emerges as an administrative activity for further
investigation, enhancing the understanding of the art of administration.
