Difficulties faced by Novice School Principals at Irbid Governorate Schools and the degree of effectiveness of strategies that they use to counter them

Abstract

This study aimed at identifying the difficulties faced by novice school principals at schools of Irbid Governorate, and the degree of effectiveness of strategies that they use to counter them, in addition to determining whether or not there are statistically significant differences that could be attributed to the demographic characteristics and organizational variables. The study applied the descriptive methodology. A two-part questionnaire composed of (45) statements, was administered to (243) novice principals after verifying its validity and reliability. The findings revealed difficulties with different levels of acuity, and that novice principals use strategies with different levels of effectiveness. Only one statistically significant difference was revealed and could be attributed to level of school in favor of secondary schools. The study recommended that the first-year post appointment be considered as a part of to the induction period; linking training of novice principals to the strategy of the Ministry of Education and replicating the study in other governorates.