Instructional Leadership of Principals in Building Effective Schools at Ratu Safiatuddin Cluster II Primary Schools: A Qualitative Analysis Assisted by NVivo

Iskandar, Dodi
Jamaluddin, Jamaluddin
Rizki, Sari

Electronic Journal of Education, Social Economics and Technology
Vol 6, No 2 (2025)

This study aims to describe the instructional leadership practices of principals in building effective schools at Sekolah Dasar Gugus II Ratu Safiatuddin, Aceh Tamiang Regency. The research uses a descriptive qualitative approach with data collection techniques through in-depth interviews, observation, and document study. Data analysis was conducted thematically with the assistance of NVivo software to ensure depth and transparency. The results reveal three main instructional leadership practices: (1) continuous and feedback-based academic supervision, (2) teacher professional development through training and collaboration in Teacher Working Groups (KKG), and (3) the creation of a positive school culture characterized by open communication, appreciation, and discipline. Triangulation analysis using NVivo's project map feature shows a strong alignment between the perspectives of principals and teachers, confirming that these practices tangibly shape a safe, comfortable, and conducive learning climate. The main obstacle faced is the high administrative burden, which limits time for instructional functions. The study concludes that structured and learning-oriented instructional leadership is a key factor in building primary school effectiveness and recommends the need for supportive policies to strengthen the instructional role of principals amid administrative challenges.