Innovation and isomorphism

Abstract

Tarpon U is an institution in the “middle” that was established in 1997, and charged with creating innovative education in the 21st century for an area that had lacked four-year higher education. The researcher sought to discover whether a new, rapidly growing institution unburdened by history and tradition could readily innovate. The study covered the years 1993-2013. A president committed to innovation and a small, enthusiastic band of faculty and staff initially led Tarpon U. Characteristic of the innovative program were ecological education, service learning, interdisciplinary liberal arts baccalaureate, teaching with technology, and a “weekend college.” However, over time the isomorphic tendencies at the faculty, institution, and state levels tended to curb innovation, and Tarpon U, while still innovative, came to look more like other similar institutions.