The principal's instructional leadership role as a factor influencing academic performance: a case study

• Main Author: Mbatha, M. V.
• Other Authors: Odendaal, R.M. (Dr.)
• Format: Others
• Language: en
• Published: 2009
• Subjects: School ambience; Instructional time; Instructional resources; Academic expectations; Academic mission; Academic monitoring; Academic performance; Learner; Principal; Instructional leadership; 371.2012096842; School supervision > South Africa > Vryheid; School management and organization > South Africa > Vryheid; School principals > South Africa > Vryheid; Educational leadership > South Africa > Vryheid; Academic achievement > South Africa > Vryheid; Teacher-student relationships > South Africa > Vryheid
• Online Access: Mbatha, M. V. (2009) The principal's instructional leadership role as a factor influencing academic performance: a case study, University of South Africa, Pretoria, <http://hdl.handle.net/10500/1432>; http://hdl.handle.net/10500/1432

This research investigates the instructional leadership role of the principal and its impact on learners' academic performance. A literature study investigated models of instructional leadership, characteristics of instructional leadership and instructional leadership as a managerial function. An empirical investigation used a quantitative research design to collect data from a purposefully selected sample of secondary school principals in the Vryheid region, South Africa. A questionnaire was used to gather data and statistical data analysis was conducted to calculate frequencies and test hypotheses. Findings indicated an indirect relationship between learners' academic achievement and the principals' practice of instructional leadership. Clearly formulated school goals, academic networks formed between low and high achieving schools and regular discussions between learners and teachers on their progress also contribute to improved academic performance. Finally, in-service training for principals and teachers, annual targets for academic achievement and the formation of school networks are recommended to improve practice. === Educational Studies === M.Ed. (Education Management)