Faculty Research Characteristics, Productivity and University Research Environment: Basis for Enhancing Research Culture

Abstract

This study aimed to determine the research characteristics,
productivity, and research environment of the faculty members
of Quirino State University. The study utilized the mixed methods
descriptive design employing both quantitative and qualitative
approaches. Data were collected through survey questionnaires,
interviews and focus group discussion. Quantitative data were
analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics while the
qualitative data were analyzed thematically. The study found that
the University’s research management is efficiently functioning. The
three campuses have varied extent of productivity along the number
of proposals developed, researches completed, outputs presented,
conferences attended, researches published, and creative works
copyrighted, patented and trademarked. The faculty members of the
three campuses are highly motivated and knowledgeable in doing
research. The participants’ number of subject preparations significantly
affects their motivational, attitudinal drive in doing research. The
age and years as a researcher together with their number of subject
preparations greatly affected their knowledge and skills in research.
The extent of the departmental research culture, participants’ working
conditions, extent of collaboration and access to professional networks
is high and low on online publication in the three campuses. The
problems encountered by the participants include overloaded subject
preparations, unequal distribution of research training opportunities,
fear of statistics, uninstitutionalized collaborative research; only best
papers are given recognition and absence of incentive during in-house
reviews.