A comparative study of roles and responsibilities of secondary department heads as perceived by principals and department heads in the Little Rock School District
Date of Award
1994
Document Type
Dissertation
Abstract
This descriptive study was designed to expand understanding of the chairperson's complex position by exploring the status of the department head position within the Little Rock School District. The primary focus was upon perceptions held by principals and department heads with regard to roles and responsibilities of department heads in secondary schools and across content areas. The research questions were as follows: (1) Is there congruence between principals' and department heads' perceptions within the Little Rock School District regarding roles and performance responsibilities of department heads? (2) Considering the complexity of the role of secondary department heads, how can the requisite elements for effective departmental leadership best be described and understood? The study was conducted in the Little Rock School District during the 1993-94 school year. Sample groups included the 13 secondary school principals and 81 secondary department heads within the district. Response rate was 97.87%. Data was collected by means of two descriptive surveys, one which focused on personal information and characteristics of principals and chairpersons, and a second which addressed perceptions as to current versus appropriate roles and responsibilities of department heads. Results indicated that principals and department heads were in agreement as to the four major roles of chairpersons within the district. In order of descending importance roles were perceived to be team building, and administrative, educational, and supervisory leadership. It was also noted that the professional negotiation agreement and job description are out of date with regard to department heads, there is a need for training in utilizing departmental leaders, and ambiguity exists related to several elements which are necessary for effective departmental leadership. Based upon Max Weber's Ideal Type, the CLEAR Model was suggested as a summary depiction of the five necessary elements. The elements include clarity of roles and responsibilities, demonstrated leadership skills, subject-area expertise, accountability via expectations and evaluations, and provision for adequate resources.
Recommended Citation
Logan, Vickie Balios, "A comparative study of roles and responsibilities of secondary department heads as perceived by principals and department heads in the Little Rock School District" (1994). Theses and Dissertations. 5.
https://research.ualr.edu/etd/5
