Management strategies to improve job satisfaction of principals in primary schools

Abstract

The aim of this study is to optimise aspects of job satisfaction in the work environment to improve the effectiveness of primary school principals. Job dissatisfaction seems to be a worldwide problem in the education sector, even in South Africa a number of researches were conducted on job satisfaction. In this research the focus is on the following research questions: What is the nature of job satisfaction? Which factors contribute to the job satisfaction/dissatisfaction of primary school principals? To what extent do primary school principals experience job satisfaction? Do certain biographical variables relate to primary school principals’ job satisfaction? How can the job satisfaction of primary school principals be improved through management strategies? The research method used was a quantitative research method by using statistical methods that began with the collection of data based on theory, followed by the application of a descriptive or inferential statistical method. Descriptive statistical techniques were used to organise, analyse and interpret the quantitative data. Information was obtained to determine whether a relationship exists between the independent variables and the dependent variable (job satisfaction of the participants). Management strategies with aims, goals and action steps were drawn in order to assist primary school principals to improve their strong points and turn their weak points into strengths. The management strategies drawn also aimed to improve the job satisfaction of the primary school principals. In general the majority of participants in this study reported that they were satisfied to some and a great extent with the aspects that contribute to their job satisfaction. Although the majority of the participants were satisfied with the aspects of job satisfaction there were some factors that affected them negatively. The negative factors are to be turned into strengths and the existing strengths be optimised.