School Autonomy in France According to Talis 2013: The Importance of Educational Leadership

ABSTRACT

In recent years, school autonomy in France has become a central issue for the improvement of students´ outcomes. French principals, who have a significant responsibility for learning tasks, play an active role in decision-making. The purpose of this study is to explore the correlation between the type of school (publicly or privately-managed) and the significant responsibilities of French principals which participated in TALIS 2013. The sample consisted of 174 participants. Descriptive data were generated for all variables (percentages and means). Pearson's chi-square test was used to determine if there is an association between the type of school and principals´ responsibilities for some tasks. All analyses were carried out using SPSS, version 22. Findings suggest a significant correlation between the type of school and principals´ responsibilities for dismissing teachers and establishing teachers’ salaries. This study adds to a growing body of research that school-based management has an influence on principals´ responsibilities for deciding which courses are offered and choosing learning materials.