Research Capability of Tertiary Teachers as a Basis for Developing Research Development Program: the Case of a Local College in the Philippines

Abstract

Research is one of the trifocal duties of higher educational institutions. HEIs must participate optimally in national transformation through knowledge production and transfer, which is critical to the country's participation in the knowledge-based global economy. However, faculty participation in research is limited due to factors such as research capacity and attitude, as well as the research environment in the workplace. A mixed method, specifically a case study, was used to determine the research capability of 94 faculty members in a local college in the Philippines and the challenges they encountered along the identified areas of the research process. Findings reveal that faculty members are not confident with their research abilities in identifying a problem and interpreting quantitative and qualitative data. Likewise, due to a tight schedule in teaching, they lack time and cannot prioritize research work. Faculty members also do not have any idea regarding research opportunities (funding and grants). However, faculty members believe that research enhances their teaching efficiency and significantly benefits their personal and professional development. For that reason, institutional research policies, agenda, and strategies must be strengthened, and institutional research development programs must be established.