PROMOTING DIGITAL LEADERSHIP FOR SCHOOL ADMINISTRATORS BASED ON THE FIVE STRENGTHS (BALA 5) UNDER THE PATHUM THANI PRIMARY EDUCATIONAL SERVICE AREA OFFICE 1

Abstract

This research article aimed: 1) to study the current state of digital leadership among school administrators, 2) to study methods for promoting digital leadership based on the Five Bala Principles, and 3) to propose guidelines for promoting digital leadership based on the Five Bala Principles among school administrators in Pathum Thani Primary Educational Service Area Office 1. This mixed-method research methodology consisted of: 1) quantitative research using a questionnaire with a sample of 320 participants. Data were analyzed using statistics such as frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation, and 2) qualitative research using interviews with seven key informants. Data were analyzed using content analysis.

The results revealed that: 1) The current state of digital leadership among school administrators in Pathum Thani Primary Educational Service Area Office 1 was at a high level overall. 2) Methods for promoting digital leadership based on the Five Bala Principles among school administrators revealed that: (1) In the area of ​​information technology, the focus was on embracing and experimenting with new technologies, continuously learning, using technology appropriately for the context, implementing policies according to plans, and providing training tailored to teachers' actual needs. (2) In the area of ​​change, the focus was on inspiring, daring to adapt despite resistance, and using data to guide the learning process connected to the local context. (3) In the area of vision: Communicate goals consistently, translated into action plans, adapted to the situation, focused on long-term goals, and used data to determine direction. (4) In the area of inspiration: Praise the team, being a role model, knew the timing, encouraged, and supported appropriately on an individual basis. (5) In the area of support: Trust teachers even if they had failed, going to the field, providing on-the-spot, continuous, and individual support. 3) Guidelines for promoting digital leadership according to the Five Bala Principles of educational administrators include: (1) Information technology leadership: Administrators should be aware of technology, use it ethically, dare to learn new things, operate according to goals, and select appropriate technology. This will result in the school being able to use technology effectively, teachers are confident, and can develop sustainable learning. (2) Transformational leadership: Administrators must be adaptable, have clear, shared goals, be steadfast in the face of obstacles, be thoughtful, and adhere to organizational goals. This will help the organization transition smoothly, reduce resistance, and generate innovations that are consistent with the context. 3) Visionary leadership: Administrators must have a clear vision, systematic planning, believe in the direction, be committed to development, and think rationally, helping to determine the organization's direction stably and involving all sectors. (4) Inspirational leadership: Administrators should be role models, communicate to build strength, and have confidence in their teams. Listening with understanding and inspiring with knowledge results in employees having positive energy, working willingly and creating synergy in the organization. (5) Supportive leadership: Administrators should care with understanding, support with a sense of time and place, provide solid support and enhance people's potential to grow, making employees feel valued, connected and the organization grow sustainably. All of this will lead to the creation of an organizational culture that is open to innovation and can sustainably develop the school's potential.