ETD Collection

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Author: search.filters.author.Kau, Cleopas KokaneSubject: search.filters.subject.School leadership

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    The role of the principal as an instructional leader in creating a quality learning environment.
    (2009-09-03T07:37:53Z) Kau, Cleopas Kokane
    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). iii 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.