Complex Interplay between Democratic, Collegial, Political, Participative and Systemic Challenges

Abstract

This study explores complex interplay between democratic, collegial, political, and participative leadership and systemic challenges. Data was collected through interview schedule, field notes and open-ended questionnaire. Criterion purposeful sampling technique was used to select 20 educational leaders from 20 schools. Data analysis was conducted using thematic analysis, typological analysis, content analysis and Atlas.ti. The findings have established the complex interplay between democratic, collegial, political and participative leadership and systemic challenges, leadership strategies used and complex interplay between them. Educational leaders need to study and learn the application of leadership strategies, apply leadership strategies to optimise success and enhance schools academic performance which results on student academic performance. Educational leaders should integrate elements of democratic, collegial, political and participative leadership and systemic challenges to support staff, enhance job satisfaction, and/or promote the student success. Leadership strategies have complex interplay on schools performance which affects schools, teachers’ performance which could results in positive and/or negative student academic performance.

Keywords: leadership strategies, schools performance, democratic, participative leadership

DOI: 10.7176/EJBM/17-4-07

Publication date: May 30^th 2025