Factors Influencing Lecturer Research Output In New Universities In Zimbabwe

Abstract

The purpose of this study which is the initial stage of a doctoral study was to find factors promoting and those affecting lecturers research output in new universities in Zimbabwe. This was prompted by the observation that lecturer research output in new universities is low resulting in the majority of lecturers failing to be tenured. A descriptive survey based on a case study of one new university was used. Data was gathered from a stratified sample of 59 lectures and 201 teaching assistants using questionnaires, focus group discussions and informal interviews. The study revealed that, lecturers were motivated to research by external factors such as the need for tenure (82%) and promotion. Main factors affecting lecturer research output include a lack of research mentors (98%), very large undergraduate classes compelling the lecturer to spend all the time marking assignments (85%) on the expense of research, and lack of workshops on how to research and publish. The study recommends an alternated semester intake so that lecturer has one semester with no students when course is not on offer. Willing research mentors can be appointed within or outside the university to mentor others. Lecturers can be attached to successful researchers as assistant researchers to facilitate mentoring. Peer reviewers and editors can hold research development workshops for new lecturers.