Teachers beliefs regarding the qualities of an effective principal / Aishath Sheeza

Abstract
Teacher's beliefs regarding the qualities of an effective principal This study focuses on teacher's beliefs regarding the qualities of an effective principal. It also focuses on leadership styles teachers desire which will directly have an impact on their job satisfaction. The research also focused on how teachers perceived their principal's leadership style, and the specific principal leadership behaviors that develop teacher's job satisfaction.
The research was guided by four main questions. They were what are the teacher's beliefs regarding the qualities of an effective principal, why teachers prefer a specific leadership style, to what extent do principal's leadership traits influence teacher's beliefs, and what expectations do teachers have on the role of principal.
The Best Interpretive Qualitative Method was used to develop four core themes and twelve sub-themes. The sample population consisted of five teachers, a leading teacher and the principal of the school. Evidence for my claims comes from interviewing five teachers, a leading teacher and the principal at a secondary school of Addu City, Maldives using the basic interpretive method of analysis.
Interview results disclosed that principals with positive and collaborative styles generate a positive environment in schools. Teachers talked more about different leadership styles based on the relationships they have with the principal. They also talked about their prospects of what a principal should be, not exactly about what their principal's main leadership style be. Teachers generally expected the principal to know about all aspects of their school, though giving teachers autonomy and freedom to make decisions in classrooms. Teachers wanted a strong leader who can make clear and consistent decisions after taking teacher's opinions into consideration. They also wanted their principal to be a person with high moral character and someone whose integrity and intellect they could respect.