Principals’ instructional leadership practices in selected nursing and midwifery colleges under the Christian Health Association of Malawi
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Abstract
Background. The job description of principals of the Christian Health Association of Malawi (CHAM) nursing and midwifery colleges highlights instructional leadership. However, it is not known whether CHAM college principals practise instructional leadership as stipulated in their job descriptions.
Objective. To explore the instructional leadership of CHAM college principals in managing their institutions.
Methods. This descriptive qualitative study was conducted with six CHAM college principals. Purposive sampling was used, and data were collected through in-depth interviews and analysed using thematic analysis.
Results. The study found that principals tried to indirectly implement instructional leadership practices in their institutions. However, they experienced a level of strain between their instructional leadership and their administrative practices.
Conclusion. We recommend that principals be equipped with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes to provide instructional leadership. They should also take advantage of professional development opportunities to improve instructional leadership.
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