IMPROVING PRINCIPAL TEACHER RELATIONSHIP IN SECONDARY SCHOOL MANAGEMENT THROUGH EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION

Abstract

This study was aimed at determining effective communication techniques for improving principal- teacher relationship in Secondary School in Ebonyi State. Three research questions were stated. The study was a descriptive survey involving a stratified random sample of 30 principals and 275 teachers. Data was collected through a 28-item researcher developed questionnaire, structured on a 4-point scale that ranged from strongly agree to strongly disagree. Data was analyzed using mean and Standard Deviation scores from the research questions. From the findings, the communication forms and channels for enhancing principal- teacher relationships include the use of phatic, persuading, corrective, entertainment, informing and direct oral face to face communications. Effective communication would improve principal-teacher relationship by enhancing trust, teamwork, respect, positive working relations, among removal of interpersonal conflicts among staff. It was recommended among other things that principals and staff in Secondary School should avoid reliance on cathartic, grapevine communication and use of body expression to avoid communication misinterpretations, which is likely to put strain in principal-teacher relationship