| Abstract [eng] |
This master’s thesis examines the expression of leadership models in preschool education institutions. The relevance of the topic is determined by the growing attention to contemporary leadership in educational organizations, teachers’ professional well-being, educational quality, and the strengthening of organizational culture. In the modern education system, the ability of leaders and teachers to unite the community, promote collaboration, empower employees, and create a positive organizational environment is becoming increasingly important. Research question – what conditions and factors determine the expression of leadership models in preschool education institutions, and what challenges hinder the successful implementation of these models in practice? The aim of the study was to theoretically substantiate and empirically investigate how different leadership models are expressed in preschool education institutions. Research methods. The study employed scientific literature analysis, quantitative and qualitative research methods. The quantitative study involved 157 preschool education teachers, and the data were analyzed using statistical analysis methods. The qualitative study was conducted using a semi-structured interview method, involving 16 heads of preschool education institutions. The research data were analyzed using the principles of qualitative content analysis. Conclusions. The results of the study revealed that the most strongly expressed aspects in preschool education institutions are organizational culture, communication, empowerment, and transformational leadership. Teachers with greater work experience demonstrated higher evaluations in most leadership scales. The study also revealed very strong relationships between different leadership models, including transformational leadership, empowerment, communication, emotional leadership, organizational culture, and participative leadership. The qualitative study showed that leaders associate leadership with community building, teacher empowerment, emotional support, open communication, and collaboration. The main challenges identified were administrative burden, heavy workload, lack of time, and unequal employee involvement in organizational activities. |
