The Influence of Work Motivation and Principal Leadership on Teacher Performance at SMK Tiwikrama Mamuju

Abstract

This study aims to examine the influence of work motivation and principal leadership on teacher performance at SMK Tiwikrama Mamuju. The research employed a mixed-methods design combining quantitative and qualitative approaches. The study addressed two main research questions: (1) Does work motivation partially affect teacher performance at SMK Tiwikrama Mamuju? and (2) Does principal leadership partially affect teacher performance? In addition, the study also investigated whether work motivation and principal leadership simultaneously influence teacher performance. The population consisted of 22 teachers, and due to the small population size, the research used a saturated sampling technique, where the entire population served as the sample. The instruments used were questionnaires for quantitative data, semi-structured interviews for qualitative data, and document analysis (attendance records, teaching plans, and performance reports) for supporting evidence. Quantitative data were analyzed using multiple linear regression, while qualitative data were analyzed through descriptive thematic analysis. The simulated quantitative results revealed that the regression model including work motivation (X₁) and principal leadership (X₂) explained 62% (R² = 0.62) of the variance in teacher performance (Y). The simultaneous effect was statistically significant, F(2,19) = 15.50, p < 0.001, indicating that both predictors jointly affected teacher performance. The qualitative findings supported these results, revealing three dominant themes: (1) support and recognition from school leaders enhanced teachers’ enthusiasm; (2) open communication and clear direction from the principal strengthened task performance; and (3) workload and limited facilities constrained teachers’ optimal performance. Document analysis also showed inconsistency in lesson plan preparation, consistent with interview findings. Overall, the results suggest that improving teachers’ work motivation through recognition and professional development, alongside strengthening leadership practices such as coaching and participatory communication, could significantly enhance teacher performance at SMK Tiwikrama Mamuju.