| An important part of the school principal or vice-principal's work is to provide instructional leadership. This action-research project included the participation of teachers and administrators and explored the question "How does a principal's knowledge and skills affect his or her ability as an instructional leader?" The research demonstrated the importance of knowledge in the role of instructional leader. Some characteristics of the instructional leader mentioned in this research are that instructional leaders are supportive, respectful, and equitable. They bring innovative ideas to the school and model learning and teaching. The results indicate that effective instructional leaders are current with research development and possess knowledge of the curriculum, what is happening in the school, and effective teaching strategies. Time, lack of knowledge, the teachers' union, the general culture, and different personality traits of administrators seemed to be significant barriers standing between them and their duties related to instructional leadership. |
