The role of the principal as an instructional leader in creating a quality learning environment.
Date
2009-09-03T07:37:53Z
Authors
Kau, Cleopas Kokane
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Abstract
This research is underpinned by a conceptual framework which is based
upon the theory that the principal should share leadership responsibilities
with educators to inspire commitment in creating a quality learning
environment. The research investigates the role of the principal in creating
a quality learning environment to improve school performance and the
achievement of its learners.
The research considered complexities surrounding educational reforms
which require a collaborative approach wherein the principal invites
educators to participate in a discussion on how instructional activities
should be conducted in a school. When principals who are instructional
leaders accept their instructional role and exercise it in collaboration with
educators, they practice an integrated form of leadership.
This report is relevant in the South African context because the situation in
South Africa is made critical by the introduction of a new curriculum
framework which requires an approach which will emphasise the principal’s
interactive role with educators in the central area of curriculum, instruction
and assessment. Shared instructional leadership is an inclusive concept,
compatible with competent and empowered educators.
Educators assume leadership responsibility when they interact with other
adults in the school community around school reform efforts, encourage
others to improve their professional practice, or learn together with their
school colleagues (Moller & Katzenmeyer, 1996).
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A qualitative methodology was used which involved a secondary school in
Gauteng.This case study was undertaken to establish the principal’s and
educators’ perception of the role of the principal as an instructional leader.
Although limited in its scope, the research revealed valuable information
which identified contextual factors such as socio-economic, organizational
climate and educator commitment which concluded that these are factors
which play a significant role in creating a quality learning environment.
What is needed in South Africa for a quality education to take place is an
inclusive approach to leadership to promote a school climate supportive of
teaching and learning. Instructional leadershipis shared, therefore, in that
specific leadership functions are carried out by designated staff members
working in collaboration, under the guidance and direction of the principal.
Description
Keywords
Shared instructional leadership, School leadership, School-focussed staff development, Induction, Strategic learning,Developmental appraisal, Distributed leadership, Collaborative teaching, Collegiality