Exploration of leadership development challenges among MARA college lecturers

Abstract

The educational change in the 21st Century has resulted in more dynamic leadership among educators. Thus, the issue of challenges in terms of leadership among educators becomes the focus of the present study. The purpose of this study is to explore the challenges faced by MARA College lecturers in an effort to improve their leadership level. The research design uses a qualitative method involving two instruments, namely an open-ended questionnaire and a face-to-face structured interview. A total of 37 lecturers from four MARA colleges, consisting of 9 males and 28 females participated in this study. The findings identified several factors that hinder the development of leadership among the lecturers at MARA College. It was discovered that factors such as time constraints, an unsupportive environment, and the level of lecturers' readiness became obstacles for the lecturers at MARA College to conduct action research related to T&L activity. Furthermore, feeling insecure and being negative are the internal factors, in addition to negative reactions from peers around, that also prevent the lecturers of MARA College from carrying out their knowledge-sharing activities. Thus, the management and lecturers at MARA College are advised to collectively evaluate and pay attention to action research activities that address local problems so that the learning atmosphere among lecturers can be strengthened and this can subsequently empower leadership among lecturers at MARA College