Unpacking Transformational Leadership: A Systematic Review of Conceptual, Methodological, and Contextual Trends (2019-2023)

Abstract

Transformational leadership has proven to be effective leadership in driving positive organizational change and tackling complex challenges. Despite extensive research on transformational leadership, the majority focuses on business or school level, leaving a gap in higher education level. This research conducted a systematic literature review to explore methodological trends and conceptualizations of transformational leadership in higher education context. Scopus and Science Direct databases covering comprehensive and high-quality academic literature in education were used to identify relevant literature. The study period spanned from 2019 to 2023. Following PRISMA guidelines, the analysis of 44 selected studies showed dynamic distribution of publications over five years. Transformational leadership has gained increasing academic attention in global higher education, particularly across Asia. Investigations into this variable have employed diverse methodological approaches---qualitative, quantitative and mixed methods, with quantitative studies being the most prevalent. The conceptualization of transformational leadership in these studies largely builds on Bass's (1985) multidimensional model and Yukl's (2006) leadership theory. They highlight that transformational leadership involves inspirational motivation, idealized influence, individual consideration, and intellectual stimulation, focusing on stimulating and empowering subordinates to perform beyond expectations. This study may provide a valuable reference framework for researchers examining transformational leadership in educational contexts.