Factors Affecting Principals’ Decision-Making: Tools for Professional Development and Career Advancement
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.20324914Keywords:
Evaluation Tool, Principals’ Decision-making, Professional Development, Educational Leadership, Teacher MotivationAbstract
This study aims to develop an evaluation tool designed to assist school principals in making strategic decisions regarding teacher professional development and career progression. Utilizing a mixed-method sequential exploratory design, the researcher conducted thematic analyses of interviews with eight principals, followed by Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) involving 150 participants to validate the findings. The results identify eight critical dimensions including teacher readiness, institutional priorities, financial resources, and equity that influence leadership choices. By synthesizing Transformational Leadership, Human Capital, and Systems theories, the research offers a model that balances institutional needs with resource constraints. The study illustrates a methodology for converting qualitative insights into validated quantitative instruments. The resulting evaluation tool provides school leaders with actionable guidance to enhance teacher engagement and advancement. This work contributes to educational leadership by aligning practical administrative tools with Sustainable Development Goal 4, promoting inclusive, equitable, and high-quality professional growth within the school system.
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