Identifying Barriers and Challenges of Educational Leadership in Elementary Schools

Abstract

Educational leaders in schools face numerous challenges due to the rapid pace of social and economic changes. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to identify the barriers and challenges of educational leadership in elementary schools. This research was conducted using an exploratory strategy. The statistical population of this study included all elementary school principals, educational management experts, and professionals in West Azerbaijan Province. The sampling method was purposive, based on the criterion of theoretical saturation, and employed a snowball technique, resulting in a sample size of 19 individuals. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews. Data analysis was conducted using open, axial, and selective coding. The results of this study identified eight main barriers to educational leadership: lack of specialized and skill-based competencies of leaders, structural barriers, lack of meritocracy, inadequate quantity and quality of facilities and equipment, financial barriers, inefficiency and ineffectiveness of educational staff, educational barriers, and social barriers. The necessary strategies to overcome these barriers and challenges facing leaders in elementary schools include aligning equipment, students, and teachers; evaluating educational quality; fostering creativity and innovation in education; delegating authority to leaders; developing educational programs and enhancing the knowledge of educational leaders; attracting and developing competent leaders; providing social support; securing funding; and empowering teachers.