LEADING WITHOUT LIMITS: A PHENOMENOLOGICAL STUDY OF THE LIVED EXPERIENCES OF INSTRUCTIONAL LEADERS DURING PANDEMIC

Abstract

The global outbreak of COVID-19 has prompted widespread inquiries regarding the possibility of continuing educational practices amidst a climate characterized by unpredictability and instability. The purpose of this study is to explore and understand the lived experiences, challenges encountered, coping mechanisms, and realizations of the elementary instructional leaders of Mawab District as they strive to lead their respective schools, assist their teachers, and overcome obstacles amidst the COVID-19 outbreak. Utilizing a qualitative methodology, the study gathered comprehensive narrative data by conducting in-depth interviews with ten instructional leaders purposively identified by the researcher. Findings revealed that instructional leaders encountered multifaceted challenges, including abrupt shifts to remote learning, maintaining academic standards, and resource constraints. Despite these challenges, participants exhibited remarkable resilience and adaptability, showcasing their different coping mechanisms. Additionally, the study discovered that the COVID-19 pandemic has had a positive effect on instructional leaders. This study concludes with recommendations and realizations that would help instructional leaders deal with unprecedented crises and areas for further research.