| Abstract [eng] |
The Master's Thesis examines the development of absorptive capacity in an educational organization. The work consists of three parts: the theoretical justification of the problem, the research methodology, and the results of the empirical study. This Master's Thesis analyses the possibilities of developing organizational absorptive capacity in educational institutions. Therefore, the aim of the research is to reveal the essence of the concept of organizational absorptive capacity and to explore its development possibilities in educational institutions. The theoretical analysis in this research was based on an analysis of scientific resources of Lithuanian and foreign scholars. The main dimensions of absorptive capacity development were identified: knowledge recognition, assimilation, transformation, and application. The influence of organizational culture, leadership style, knowledge sharing, and employee competencies on absorptive capacity was also analysed. At the end of this section, a theoretical model for the development of absorptive capacity in an educational organization was presented. For the empirical study, a case study research strategy was chosen (Šiauliai City), using qualitative research methods—document content analysis and semi-structured interview methods. Organizational strategic documents and action plans were analysed in the document content analysis. Moreover, interviews were conducted with managers, teachers, and experts about their experiences related to the assimilation and application of new knowledge in educational organizations. The results of the empirical study revealed that absorptive capacity is a multifaceted process, dependent on effective knowledge exchange among employees (enabling rapid responses to external information) and strengthening the organization’s absorptive capacity (including knowledge recognition, assimilation, transformation and application). Moreover, it depends also on the continuous training and professional development of employees (fostering a culture of collaboration) as well as the leadership of educational organization managers (promoting innovation and openness to new ideas). It was found that the development of absorptive capacity of Šiauliai City’s educational institutions is limited by a lack of human and financial resources, bureaucratic obstacles, and insufficient integration of digital technologies. These factors reduce organizations' ability to quickly assimilate and apply new knowledge. The Thesis's conclusions emphasize the importance of absorptive capacity as a strategic priority. Practical recommendations are offered: to invest strategically in employee training, implement innovative technologies, promote systematic knowledge sharing, and implement knowledge management strategies that ensure a smooth flow of information. This Master's Thesis contributes to the development of the discourse on the management of educational organizations and the implementation of innovations. The research results are useful for both the academic community and the managers of educational organizations seeking to increase organizational efficiency and preparedness to respond to changing needs. |
