THE CHANGING MANAGEMENT ROLE OF THE PRINCIPAL IN THE PROPOSED SCHOOL BASED MANAGEMENT SYSTEM IN SRI LANKA

Abstract

This study is envisaged to focus on the changing management role of principals in the Sri Lankan context. Accordingly, the major objectives of this research are to find out the nature of the present managerial role of the principal, specific features of the School Based Management system (SBM) in 1AB schools, the evident shortcomings of principals in school management and the factors that disrupt their role and to determine the strategies that would enhance the achievement of the expected role of the principal under the SBM system. The study was limited to eight 1AB schools in the Gampaha district of Sri Lanka and a sample survey was adopted. The sample of the study comprised of 08 principals, 08 deputy principals, 40 teachers, 24 parents and 04 zonal directors employing questionnaires, attitude tests and interviews. Data thus collected were analyzed and interpreted and presented using tables, graphs percentages and other simple statistical devices. The findings reveled that there is a “principal centered” decision making process in the school system in Sri Lanka. The pivot of the decision making mechanisms is the principal. Nevertheless limited power, authority and leadership are centered around him/her. They have not been entrusted with the required power and authority in decision making. Furthermore, the weaknesses that emerged most strikingly were found in the areas of planning and resource management. Scarcity of resources hampered the functioning of the principal as an efficient and effective manager. Above all, specific features of SBM system were not evident in certain schools which came under the research study. The study has thus highlighted two significant requirements regarding SBM. which strongly demand the empowerment of principals and internal school community as well as the enactment of regulations to enable schools to enjoy more autonomy. This study, therefore, is critically important in the formulation of school management policies and strategies.

Keywords: Decision-Making, Principal’s Role, School Based Management (SBM), School Management

For full paper: fmscresearch@sjp.ac.lk