Fua, Seu'ula J. and Koloto, Ana H. (2010) Tonga school leadership: students' perceptions. [Professional and Technical Reports] (Unpublished)
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Abstract
The aim of this research study was to gain insight into students’ perceptions of school principals and the leadership practices that are practiced by school leaders.
This research study is part of the Ministry of Education, Women’s Affairs and Culture (MEWAC) Leadership and Research Development Project funded through the Tonga Education Support Program (TESP) and facilitated by the University of the South Pacific’s Institute of Education. This project was implemented between May – October of 2010.
A quantitative approach was taken to conduct this study, using a short closed ended questionnaire. The questionnaire was distributed to 10% of the Form 5 students across Tonga. This included students from Tongatapu, `Eua, Vava`u, Ha`apai, Niuafo`ou and Niuatoputapu. A total of 525 5th form students participated in this survey.
Overall findings show that 60% of students feel that they are happy to meet with their principal; 42% believe that one of the most important responsibilities of a principal is to advice and council students; and 42% believe that it is important for principals to contact parents regarding students’ behaviour and performance at school. About 59% of students believe that principals make their decisions based on school regulations and rules. And 49% of students believe that one of the most important characteristics that principals should have is being good host and make people feel welcome at the school.
Tongan students’ perceptions of school principals are favourable and encouraging, demonstrating a healthy relationship between most students and their principals. Students also demonstrate a maturity about understanding leadership styles that are being practiced by their principals and the importance of communication between the principal and parents and community members. It was most surprising to find 49% of students believe that the most important Tongan characteristic that a principal should have is being hospitable. Additionally, students also believe that principals should be honest (30%) and have love (30%). Overall, students have a favourable attitude and perception of school principals.
| Item Type: | Professional and Technical Reports |
|---|---|
| Subjects: | L Education > L Education (General) |
| Divisions: | Faculty of Arts, Law and Education (FALE) > Institute of Education |
| Depositing User: | Afuafu Kautoke |
| Date Deposited: | 20 Jan 2017 02:43 |
| Last Modified: | 20 Jan 2017 02:43 |
| URI: | https://repository.usp.ac.fj/id/eprint/9562 |
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