Attributes and roles of subject leaders. (c2008)

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to identify the attributes and roles of subject leaders as they are set out in their job descriptions and other related documents, and as they are perceived by three categories of stakeholders (four administrators, eight subject leaders and 58 teachers) in two Lebanese Anglophone high schools. The research design is a qualitative case study using mixed methods. Data was collected through (1) semi structured interviews with the administrators and subject leaders; (2) questionnaires for the teachers; and (3) document analysis of pertinent administrative official documents. The responses to all the instruments of data collection were synthesized to draw relevant inferences from the results. The findings reveal that subject leaders are selected on the basis of their academic qualifications; previous experiences; personal attributes and professional skills; and on their perceived ability to manage. All the subject leaders had learned their profession on the job. The professional development of subject leaders was found to be haphazard and unstructured. The roles subject leaders engage in fall into curriculum related activities; into maintaining a productive and collaborative department culture; and entail attending to all tasks related to improving standards of teaching and learning. The perceived attributes of subject leaders include interpersonal and communication skills; integrity; and being an effective manager and a leader. Differences in perceived importance to these characteristics and roles can be traced to the variable priorities and interests of the participants as well as to the different contexts of the schools. Finally all subject leaders are evaluated informally.