Assessment of the Performance of Department Chairs of a Philippine Higher Education Institution
De La Salle Lipa, Philippines
ABSTRACT
This research assessed the performance of academic chairpersons of a Philippine Higher Education Institution. It aimed to generate a model of effective departmental leadership. Twenty-seven (27) academic chairs were the subjects, and 143 faculty respondents assessed their performance through an instrument – the IDEA Feedback for Department Chairs. Through Factor analysis, the study identified the underlying factor structure of faculty ratings of the Chairs’ performance in terms of administrative responsibilities, personal characteristics, and performance of administrative methods. There was no significant difference in the performance of the Chairs when grouped according to age, gender, and years of service. There was a significant difference in the description of their detailed responsibilities as administrators. A significant difference was noted in their broad and specific responsibilities when respondents were grouped according to employment status. The model of a Department Chair preferred by faculty involves one who can develop a work environment conducive for faculty, and who can provide both program and administrative leadership and support; one who possesses personal characteristics such as the ability to resolve issues, interpersonal skills, and willingness to listen. Openness, which includes flexibility in dealing with individuals and situations; accessibility to faculty; goal-orientedness, and being democratic and humanistic; and trustworthiness are also viewed as important traits.
KEYWORDS
Performance, Academic Chairpersons, IDEA Feedback