How Do Research Teams Affect Faculty Motivation for Research?

• In Event: Research on Faculty Teaching, Evaluation, and Development

Abstract

Academic research has become a highly social process where the creation of scientific products, such as peer-reviewed journal articles, are increasingly generated by teams of graduate students led by university faculty. The current study examined faculty member’s motivation to conduct research and coordinate research labs, groups, or teams through the lens of Self-Determination Theory. Analysis of survey data from 651 STEM faculty indicated those reporting more autonomous motivation for research (engagement based on enjoyment, value) were more likely to coordinate research teams voluntarily. Results also suggest that faculty who voluntarily coordinate research teams felt more related to their colleagues and autonomous in research. This study contributes to our understanding of the factors that motivate faculty members to coordinate research teams.

Authors

• Michael James Herbert, University of North Dakota
  Presenting Author

• Robert H. Stupnisky, University of North Dakota
  Non-Presenting Author