Women in educational management

Abstract

This study focuses on the position of women in educational management. Reflections on the historical perspective of the advancement of Maltese women teachers reveal that the number of women in administrative positions is quite low compared to the number of women in the teaching profession. Teacher training has been traditionally linked with classroom management and this together with stereotyped attitudes has not made it any easier for Maltese women to take up educational management as a career. The dissertation explores the influence of social expectations on women's aspirations and on their career path. A literature review of the prevailing perspectives, analyses and research on women educational managers is presented. Interviews with three female Directors highlights their career path, and their perception of management and administration. Observations on traits in women's approach to management and leadership exposed trends of behaviour affecting office work, time management, delegation of duties and relations with clients. This is presented through an interpretation of a survey addressed to female Heads of School. 70% of the female Heads of School of state schools replied to this survey. Another survey among teachers give an indication of how these teachers relate with their Heads. The discussion is concluded by a number of recommendations aimed at enabling women to participate in management thereby asserting their position.