Exploring the Perceptions of Omani School Principals About Their Leadership Preparation: A Mixed-Methods Study

This study aimed to explore school leadership preparation and development in Oman. Based on quantitative and qualitative data collected through surveys and focus group interviews, the study investigated how a sample of public school principals perceived their principalship preparation. The investigation included leadership learning experiences, adequacy of leadership preparation, problematic leadership areas, and conceptions of effective preparation. The study findings showed that while Omani principals felt they were adequately prepared for principalship, certain leadership aspects have remained problematic for them. Participants expressed their preference for organized training combining theoretical and practical elements but specifically valued experiential learning activities.