An evaluation of the impact of different leadership and management styles, on grades 12 learners' performance in selected schools, in the Philippi area, Cape Town

Abstract

This research study investigates the impact of different leadership and management styles on Grade 12 learners’ performances in Philippi high schools in Cape Town. The literature that was consulted, explains the nature of performance, performance management, characteristics of good and bad leaders, characteristics of good and bad managers, emotional intelligence, strategic management and different leadership styles. All the above topics were explained in full; the multifactor questionnaire was used to determine the leadership and management styles of principals within their schools. Information was gathered using three instruments, from a sample of seven principals (Leaders) and 150 educators (Raters). Firstly, a set of interview questions for the leaders was compiled, to determine their experience, management and leadership qualifications. This was to ascertain whether the performance of Grade 12 learners in their various schools is directly proportional to their qualifications. Secondly, the multifactor Leadership Questionnaires, which were completed by the leaders (principals), were used to determine leadership and management styles of leaders in the respective schools. The principal rated himself or herself to determine the kind of a leader or manager he or she is, by answering a set of closed questions. Thirdly, the multifactor Rater Questionnaires, which were completed by the raters (Educators and School Management Team), were used to determine leadership and management styles of leaders in the respective schools. The educators rated their principal to determine the kind of a leader he or she was, by answering a set of closed questions.