A study of the task areas of selected Newfoundland regional high school principals

Pittman, James Carl (1980) A study of the task areas of selected Newfoundland regional high school principals. Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

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Abstract

The purpose of this study was to observe, identify, and describe, in a systematic fashion, the pattern of activities which comprise the daily work of selected regional high school principals in the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador. Four principals were observed for a total period of 16 days. The primary method used to collect data was direct, non-participant observation. A pilot study provided an opportunity to use the observational and recording techniques, and to make adjustments where necessary. – Data were collected on the ongoing sequence of activities for each principal. Composite scores were developed to show the proportion of total working time devoted to each category of in-school activity. Descriptive and analytical information concerning each category of activity, medium used, initiator, and location are also included. – The findings from the study indicated that the principal deals with a large number and variety of issues and problems each day, each of short duration. His administrative behavior is not always planned and organized; rather, it is frequently interrupted, and as a result, his work tends to be characterized by abruptness and discontinuity. The multiplicity of demands on the principal’s time by teachers, students, parents, and other formal/informal interest groups are generally concerns requiring his immediate attention. The principal, therefore, has little time during the school day for long-term planning and contemplating decisions. – One of the main pressures of the principal’s job is that of planning and organizing his time. It is through the organization of his lower-level management and maintenance functions, efficiently handle the critical functions, and thus, have more time available for professionally-oriented functions. – Findings of this study have implications for pre-service and in-service programs offered by educational institutions and teaching groups for educational administrators. Implications also exist for replication of this study at other levels of educational administration.

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