Understanding Lecturers’ Well-being From the Aspects of Self-determination Theory

Abstract

 There are five changes in higher education across the world in the 21st century. The five changes include changes in the university students, changes in the professoriate, changes in academic administration, internationalisation, and assessment of academic work. These changes are evident in higher education in China. The pressure of the changes on lecturers will have effects on the wellbeing of lecturers. The study discusses the wellbeing under the Self-determination Theory. This theory views wellbeing as a state of happiness. This theory also proposes that people's intrinsic goals like personal growth, meaningful relationships, and community contributions can enhance the satisfaction of three basic needs—need for autonomy, need for competence, and need for relatedness. In this way, lecturers can experience a sense of wellbeing. The findings of the study are significant for leaders in higher education who need to implement policies that foster effective work environments.