Teachers' perceptions of effective leadership behaviors of heads of department (HODs) in a primary school

URI
Thumbnail Image
Type
Thesis
Files
 SelveJayaram-MA.pdf (2.15 MB)
Full Text
Author
Selve Jayaram
Supervisor
Goh, Jonathan
Abstract
The main purpose of this study was to make a contribution to the study of Heads of Department (HOD) leadership behavior in a Singapore primary school context. The study was designed to contribute to an understanding of the types of leadership behaviors that are conducive to effective performance as perceived by the teachers. A thorough literature review done initially to identify the effective leadership dimensions led to the next stage of the study. A semi-structured interview was conducted with teachers to identify the leadership behaviors. A questionnaire was then developed based on the interview findings and literature review, and administered to teachers at Evergreen Primary School. In all, 66 questionnaires were usable and later factor analyzed using Principal Components Method with Promax rotation procedure. Five factors of effective HOD leadership behavior emerged and they were Friendliness, Dynamism, Achievement, Authoritative and Authenticity. These behaviors were described by teachers to have the greatest impact on HOD leadership. The findings also indicated that Friendliness was perceived to contribute the most to HOD leadership effectiveness.

This study has contributed to the understanding of effective leadership behaviors of HODs as perceived by the teachers. This study has also clearly showed that there are subtle differences in the leadership dimensions in the eyes of the teachers. Additionally, this study has provided useful information for the training program of HODs.
Date Issued
2003
Call Number
LB2806 Sel
Date Submitted
2003