Researching the Professional Practice of Elementary Principals: Combining Quantitative Methods and Case Study

Quantitative methods are combined with a case report in a single study to develop an understanding of leadership practice of the elementary principal, suggesting a mode of leadership behaviour that may lead to increased professional effectiveness. The Argyris and Schön Theory of Professional Practice served as the theoretical basis for the study. From the survey data, generalisations were established with regard to principal and teacher perceptions of leadership practice. The survey data also functioned as a directional compass to single out three elementary schools for case study. The purpose of the field study was to operationalise the survey data by providing a conceptual view of current leadership practice interpreted in light of the theoretical model employed.