Motivation in Scientific Research of Lecturers of Vietnam National University – Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Abstract

This study was conducted to determine the current state of motivation of lecturers in scientific research tasks including carrying out and evaluating research projects, publishing research results, compiling teaching and training materials. The two methods used are a questionnaire survey and in-depth interviews with lecturers from 6 member universities of Vietnam National University – Ho Chi Minh City (VNUHCM). The results showed that the research motivation level of lecturers was generally quite high with an overall mean value of 4.15 on a 5-point Likert scale, but uneven in carrying out specific activities. Among the four tasks contributing to overall research motivation, the task of “compiling materials” has the highest level of contribution, while the task of “carrying out research projects” has the lowest. Motivation for “evaluating research projects” and “publishing research results” shows equivalent levels of contribution to overall research motivation. Based on the T-test and ANOVA results (sig < 0.05), the study also identified differences in motivation in carrying out research projects and publishing research results among groups of lecturers according to their demographic characteristics, such as position, professional title, academic rank and degree, gender, and income level at the university where they are currently employed. The research findings provide practical basis for the leaders of VNUHCM to develop policies improving motivation of lecturers in scientific research activities.