Leading with Evidence: A Reflexive Thematic Analysis (RTA) of Data-Driven Decision-Making (DDDM) Practices of Exemplary School Leaders

Abstract Book of the 10th World Conference on Future of Education

Year: 2026

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Leading with Evidence: A Reflexive Thematic Analysis (RTA) of Data-Driven Decision-Making (DDDM) Practices of Exemplary School Leaders

Zurina Assim

ABSTRACT:

This study explores the data-driven decision-making (DDDM) practices of exemplary school leaders in Brunei. Drawing from the works of Hallinger, Leithwood, Spillane, Fauske and Raybould on leadership theories and organizational learning principles, the research seeks to understand how its integration with DDDM practices can provide practical insights for school leaders to lead with evidence and build the capacity of teachers in data literacy. A qualitative research approach was employed, with semi-structured interviews serving as the primary data collection method. The sample consisted of seven exemplary school leaders from primary and secondary schools. Reflexive thematic analysis was conducted in several phases, beginning with the qualitative review of participants’ experiences, followed by more theory-driven analysis. The findings revealed the exemplary school leaders’ DDDM best practices highlighting the unified data use vision for the school, anchored in instructional and transformational leadership. The significance of distributed leadership as the strongest foundation for collaborative cultures of inquiry, leadership modelling, relational trust and personalized support with strong commitment to ethical and respectful use of data is also emphasized. Finally, the systemic and organizational barriers to data use is uncovered specifically time constraints and limited access to advanced data technologies such as AI driven dashboards or automated analysis. The study emphasizes the need for integrated strategies drawn from leadership theories and principles that build teacher capacity, support collaborative culture of inquiry learning and address system level enablers and constraints.

Keywords: Data-Driven Decision-Making; Data Literacy; School Leadership; Leadership Theories