The Implementation of Transformational Leadership by School Principals in Enhancing Teachers’ Work Motivation at SDN 13 Muara Telang

Akhri Hartono

Authors

Akhri Hartono Universitas PGRI Palembang Author

Keywords:

Transformational leadership, teacher motivation, qualitative study, school leadership, educational management

Abstract

Transformational leadership has been widely recognized as a critical determinant of teacher motivation and school effectiveness in contemporary educational research. However, limited qualitative studies explore how transformational leadership operates in rural Indonesian primary school contexts. This study aims to examine how the principal of SDN 13 Muara Telang implements transformational leadership and how such practices enhance teachers’ work motivation. A qualitative single-case study design was employed. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, non-participant observations, and document analysis involving one principal and six teachers. Thematic analysis was applied to identify emerging leadership patterns and motivational dynamics. Findings reveal that individualized consideration and intellectual stimulation were the most influential dimensions in fostering intrinsic motivation, professional risk-taking, and teacher self-efficacy. Inspirational motivation strengthened collective efficacy and professional commitment. The study confirms the contextual relevance of transformational leadership in resource-constrained environments and provides practical implications for leadership development in Indonesian primary education.

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