Advancing a Model for Enhancing Research Competencies among Non-Academic Staff in Northeast Thailand Higher Education Institutions

Abstract

The development of research competency among non-academic personnel in higher education institutions is a crucial endeavor that aligns with the evolving demands of the 21st-century workforce. This study employs a comprehensive research and development approach to create an advanced model for enhancing research competencies encompassing knowledge, skill, and attitude. The model's design is informed by meticulous need analysis, ensuring its relevance to the unique challenges faced by non-academic staff. Through expert evaluation, the model's efficacy is demonstrated in improving research-related capacities. The evaluation results underscore its robustness across various dimensions, with significant improvements observed in participants' research competencies. This study highlights the interconnectedness of knowledge, skill, and attitude in fostering research competency and supports the broader view that tailored interventions, derived from thorough need analysis, play a pivotal role in driving meaningful and sustainable improvements in research-related skills and capabilities. Ultimately, this research contributes to the ongoing discourse on non-academic staff empowerment and the advancement of higher education institutions in an increasingly research-focused landscape.