Ο διευθυντής της σχολικής μονάδας πρωτοβάθμιας και δευτεροβάθμιας εκπαίδευσης: θεωρητική ανάλυση και εμπειρική διερεύνηση

Abstract

This thesis belongs to the discipline of School Pedagogic and more specifically to the Educational Management and Administration. In terms of methodological approach, it belongs to the school of research of surveys. In the thesis, we have attempted to explore and research, theoretically and empirically, an important, timely, but quite difficult matter related to the role of the School Management, and in particular, the role of the School Heads in the upgrading of both school levels (primary and secondary) of education. Such subject is of frequent debate among educational scientists. With this theoretical and empirical approach, we have attempted to examine, record, detect, interpret and appraise various thoughts, points of view and attitudes emanating either from the State which votes, constitutes and issues of various Laws, Enactments or Decrees, or from scientists who express their aspects and findings regarding the School Head. Also, we collect and analyze data coming from Teachers and Administrative/Instructional staff of Education from the Prefecture of Thessaloniki, aiming to detect various different aspects of the above mentioned subject, offering, thus, primary data and presenting the perceptions prevailing as far as the School Heads' role is concerned - at least the ones held by subjects participating in the research. Among the most important findings of our theoretical and empirical research, we cite the following: - There is a great lack of theoretical studies and empirical research as far as the captioned subject is concerned, and they are either very short or of limited scope. - The State does not define clearly and exactly the responsibilities and duties of the School Head, at either primary or secondary school levels of education. - The School Head should not only have teaching experience, scientific and educational training, but he/she should also have training in Organization, Management and Administration, as well as visions for children's education. - Of great importance is the role of cooperation between the School Head and the School Counselors, the students, their parents and the teaching staff. - The subjects of the random sample of the survey, with few variations, consider as the most important criterion for the selection and appointment of School Heads, their leadership skills and talents. The problems which the School Heads have to deal with in their everyday school life, are mostly concerned with the material foundations, technological equipment, schooling/teaching materials, building structures, protection and maintenance of the School Building Unit, and general economic/financial matters. These can be resolved with the support of the State. Other types of problems such as concentration of administrative duties and bureaucratic issues/responsibilities, issues of school staff appraisal, selection and appointment of staff, could be resolved with close cooperation and dialogue, further education and frequent and continuous training.