Exploring private school headteachers' experiences during Covid-19 pandemic in Pakistan
Date of Award
11-27-2023
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Master of Education (M. Ed.)
First Supervisor/Advisor
Dr. Dilshad Ashraf
Department
Institute for Educational Development, Karachi
Abstract
The most recent global crisis i.e., COVID-19 pandemic shook the education systems across the globe. Developing countries like Pakistan particularly faced a multitude of challenges due to lack of preparedness for uncertain and disruptive times. Leading and managing schools during this period of extreme uncertainty and confusion put a significant deal of strain on school headteachers. Effective headteachers stand out from the rest of the crowd even if leading in the face of uncertainty can be intimidating. This qualitative research study aimed to exploring the views of two private secondary school headteachers’ experiences of managing and leading their schools during the COVID-19 crisis. The study aimed to shed light on how these headteachers navigated the unprecedented challenges brought about by the pandemic and how these experiences had impacted their views on managing and leading the schools during the crisis.
Data was collected through document analysis and semi-structured interviews with two headteachers of a private school system from two different cities of Pakistan representing two different regions. The findings unveil the multifaceted challenges they encountered, including the sudden shift to remote learning, the digital divide among students, communication challenges with all stakeholders, and the emotional and psychological well-being of both students and staff. Despite these challenges, the headteachers also noted positive aspects of their experience, such as increased collaboration among staff and a heightened focus on innovative teaching methods.
Moreover, the study highlighted how the COVID-19 pandemic has reshaped headteachers' understanding of school leadership. The participants expressed a heightened awareness of the importance of empathy and innovation in their roles. They also expressed a newfound appreciation for adaptability, resilience, and the importance of effective communication. They acknowledged the need for continuous professional development and to adapt proactive crisis management strategies to stay current in a rapidly changing educational landscape. The COVID-19, therefore, served as a catalyst for their professional growth and a re-evaluation of their roles as school headteachers.
The insights of this study provided valuable lessons for educators and policymakers as they navigated the evolving landscape of education during and beyond the COVID-19 pandemic in Pakistan.
Recommended Citation
Naureen, S. (2023). Exploring private school headteachers' experiences during Covid-19 pandemic in Pakistan [M. Ed. Dissertation]. Aga Khan University.