The Structural Equation Modeling of Administrator’s Competencies in the New Normal Affecting the Quality of the Schools under the Offices of Secondary Education Service Area of the ROI KAEN SARA SIN Provincial Group

Abstract

The objectives of this research were to 1) study the level of administrator’s competencies in the new normal and quality schools; 2) develop and verify the consistency of the structural equation model of administrators' competencies in the new normal that affect quality schools; and 3) study guidelines on development of administrators' competencies in the new normal that affect quality schools under the Offices of Secondary Education Service Area in the Roi Kaen Sara Sin Provincial Group. The research employed the mixed methods research: explanatory design. Phase 1 used the quantitative method. The sample of 440 school administrators and teachers was obtained through two-stage random sampling. The research tool was a 5-point rating scale questionnaire. Data were analyzed using mean, standard deviation, and the analysis of the structural equation model (SEM). Phase 2 used the qualitative method. The research tool was a structured interview. The target group was purposively sampled. Data were analyzed by using content analysis.
The results of the research revealed that: 1) The performance of the administrators in the new normal, on the whole, was at a high level (M = 4.41, SD = 0.40). The level of the quality schools, on the whole, was at a highest level (M = 4.58, SD = 0.25); 2) 2) The structural equation model of the administrator's competencies in the new normal affecting the quality schools was consistent with the empirical data. The performance of the administrators in the new normal had a positive direct influence on the quality schools. The total effect size was 0.774, with statistical significance at the .01 level. The variables of the administrator's competencies in the new normal could explain the variance of the quality schools for 60.0 percent, and 3) the approaches for developing the administrator's competencies in the new normal that affect the quality schools consist of 5 aspects: 1. Regarding change management, the administrator should lead schools and personnel to be ready for the changes that occur in the new normal; 2) Regarding adaptability and flexibility, the administrator should be adaptable and flexible in managing the organization; 3) On the aspect of building a team that is united in action and spirit, the administrator should promote the creation of diverse teams; 4) Regarding creative communication, the administrator should develop communication and negotiation skills to appropriately reduce conflicts that may arise in the new normal; and 5) Regarding digital technology literacy, the administrator should be a good role model in using digital technology in management.