A review of the empirical research on teacher leadership (2003–2017): Evidence, patterns and implications

Dong Nguyen*, Alma Harris, David Ng

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

136 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to outline key findings from a contemporary review of the international empirical literature focused upon teacher leadership. It synthesises what is currently known about the nature, practice, conditions and impact of teacher leadership and to outline patterns in the contemporary empirical research base. Design/methodology/approach: This review is based on an analysis of 150 empirical articles published in Scopus/SSCI-indexed journals between January 2003 and December 2017. Findings: The paper draws upon this contemporary knowledge base to explore: contextual and methodological patterns of teacher leadership research; definitions of teacher leadership; and evidence on the enactment of teacher leadership, factors influencing teacher leadership and impacts of teacher leadership. Originality/value: This paper highlights the progress and issues of the empirical research on teacher leadership since 2003 and identifies gaps in the knowledge base as well as areas for future scholarly enquiry.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)60-80
Number of pages21
JournalJournal of Educational Administration
Volume58
Issue number1
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 25 Sept 2019
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Educational leadership
  • Professional development
  • Review
  • Teacher leader
  • Teacher leadership

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