Leadership of Class Teachers (Banzhuren) in Improving Student Learning: Case Studies of Chinese Primary Schools

Abstract

As a form of teacher leadership, class teacher (banzhuren) leadership has not received sufficient attention in academia. In order to delineate the paths and practices of the class teacher in exercising leadership for improving student learning, this study applies the multiple case studies approach along with in-depth interviews so as to understand this phenomenon thoroughly. The findings suggest that moral management, routine management, collaboration with subject teachers and parents, facilitation of collaboration among students and other leadership strategies can effectively contribute to student learning in these schools. The theoretical and practical implication of this study is also discussed to facilitate research in this regard.