Overview of an MBA in Educational Leadership (International) Dissertation on "Examining international leadership practices to promote a positive research culture in Higher Education Institutes"

Abstract

In Higher Education Institutes (HEIs) there is a growing emphasis on promoting good research practices in all aspects of research, from fundamental research to applied research to commercialisation.  This study examines international leadership practices to promote a positive research culture in HEIs in terms of types of leadership models senior research leaders find are most effective, along with the practices they have found to be most impactful in leading change.

The research design was constructed using semi-structured interviews with five senior research leaders. Countries that were members of the European Network of Research Integrity Offices (ENRIO), with HEIs that were members of the European Association of Research Management and Administration (EARMA) were used as part of the sample selection process.  With the topic being under-researched, the examination was kept as a small-scale exploratory study using opportunistic and purposive sampling to recruit participants. Data analysis was carried out using NVivo.

Findings from the research study showed that the overarching leadership style to promote a positive research culture within HEIs was collective, with adaptive and competent boundary spanning characteristics, along with cognisance of the need for continuous professional development.  There was agreement among all participants that change in the research culture is occurring, and leaders need to adapt to these changes. Findings also outlined that in order for HEIs to be proactive as opposed to reactive to change, evidenced-based research in collaboration with the future users is essential, requiring support from management in resourcing the appropriate infrastructure and training. Furthermore, findings suggested that HEI values and principles need first to be agreed and then subsequently complemented by the necessary policies and training at the various levels within the HEI.  Research integrity and open research were seen as integral components to promoting a positive research culture in HEIs.