The perception of teachers about male and female headteachers leadership in basic schools at the Suame Metropolis in Kumasi

Abstract

The main purpose of the study was to assess the perception of teachers about male and female headteachers’ leadership in basic schools at the Suame Metropolis in Kumasi. Three research questions were used to accomplish the objectives of the study. A sample size of 160 was selected using simple random techniques. A descriptive survey design was employed which focused on the administering of closed ended questionnaires. The reliability coefficient of the questionnaire after pilot test was Cronbach Alfa of 0.87. Data was analysed by means of descriptive statistics of frequencies and percentages. The results of the study showed that female head teachers were considered assertive, emotional, as well as supportive, while male head teachers were seen to be decisive and independent, confident, and relationship oriented. Male head teachers were also found to be more approachable and democratic in decision making, while female head teachers were found to be more capable of disciplining of teachers and more efficient in the supervision of academic work. It is therefore recommended that the Ghana Education Service should organize training in leadership and management to help adequately prepare head teachers to be able to do their work well. In addition, the Ghana Education Service should discourage gender stereotyping in schools by sanitizing both head teachers and teachers on the negative effects it has school management.