Issues and Challenges of Subject Leadership Competency for Malaysian Head of Science Panels (HoSP)

Abstract

The rapid development of Science and Technology has driven Malaysia to reform education to stay relevant. The low achievement of student scientific literacy in the Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS) and the Program for International Student Assessment (PISA) has raised concerns with the Ministry of Education, Malaysia (MoE) where the role of Head of Science Panel (HoSP) is seen as a change agent in facilitating student achievement. Highlights of previous studies have shown that subject leadership can improve the quality of teaching and learning. To guide teachers more effectively, subject leader such as HoSP must be competent in their leadership. However, weaknesses in the aspect of HoSP leadership in Malaysia have caused them to be less competent and less confident in leading Science teachers. The main objective of this paper is to provide an overview of the issues and challenges faced by HoSP in their leadership role. Subsequently, several proposed solutions are also discussed. The administrative and management duties of the committee and the responsibility of teaching at one time have been burdensome and can lose focus on their role as subject leader. This emphasis is significant to the MoE in strengthening HoSP leadership competency to focus on enhancing students scientific literacy achievement in Malaysia.