Open Access Te Herenga Waka-Victoria University of Wellington
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The influence of life experience on leadership practices: A case study of Indonesian school principals

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posted on 2021-11-14, 05:22 authored by Sri Suwarningsih, Dwi Purwestri

The purpose of this research study was to explore how individuals’ life-stories impact on their leadership development and affect their educational leadership practices. The context for the study is the Nusa Tenggara Timur Province of Indonesia, where the overall educational achievement statistics rank very low compared to other provinces. There is currently a lack of appropriate educational policy or strategy in this province to enhance academic results. Previous research has identified that the quality of leadership may have an impact on school effectiveness and student outcomes, particularly the leadership of the school principals. Thus, this current research focuses on leadership practices of school principals. This qualitative study employed a case study design and semi-structured interviews and document analysis were used. Data were collected from six school principals from the highest achieving schools in Nusa Tenggara Timur Province, Indonesia and analysed used thematic analysis. Four factors identified from principals’ life experience that appeared to influence leadership practices were: childhood experiences; previous leadership experiences; learning from role models; and values. This study highlights the impact on life experiences on leadership practices such as setting goals and strategies, ensuring the quality of teaching, supporting teachers’ professional development, and creating healthy and safe environments. This study contributes to the existing literature regarding school principal leadership practices, and also makes recommendations to the Nusa Tenggara Timur Province government on the selection processes for educational leaders.

History

Copyright Date

2014-01-01

Date of Award

2014-01-01

Publisher

Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington

Rights License

Author Retains Copyright

Degree Discipline

Education

Degree Grantor

Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington

Degree Level

Masters

Degree Name

Master of Education

ANZSRC Type Of Activity code

970113 Expanding Knowledge in Education

Victoria University of Wellington Item Type

Awarded Research Masters Thesis

Language

en_NZ

Victoria University of Wellington School

School of Education Policy and Implementation

Advisors

Thornton, Kate