Abstract:
The purpose of this study was to assess the principals` instructional leadership practices and
challenges of secondary schools of south west shewa zone oromia regional state. A
descriptive survey research design was employed in this study for qualitative and quantitative
data. The study included 158 respondents: 8 principals 8 vice principal, 8 supervisors, and 134
teachers drawn from eight secondary schools by using purposive sampling techniques for
selection of sample principals, supervisors and simple random sampling for teachers. Data were
collected using questionnaire, interview, and document analysis. Data obtained through
questionnaire were analyzed using statistical tools like frequency, percentage, and mean.
Moreover, data were gathered through interview and document analysis were analyzed in
narrative form to complement the questionnaire. The finding of this study revealed that factors
such as lack of training in educational leadership, lack of resource (material, financial
and human resource), work overload, high and problems of working with community,
principals’ quick turn over hindered the practices of instructional leadership in the
secondary schools of south west shewa zone. Based on the findings, it was concluded that the
practices in managing curriculum and instruction, supervision, working for promoting a
conducive school learning climate, and staff development has effect on instructional leadership
effectiveness. Additionally it was concluded that the principals were not effective in playing their
role of supporting and direction the instruction. In line with the above findings and conclusions,
it was recommended that: the school leaders require short term and long term training
of management and leadership. Therefore, woreda education department should assign
principals based on their experiences in leading schools and qualification related to
educational management. In addition, Region Education Bureau together with University
should give training to principals on educational management during summer season.
