Suwanan Sopatanarote. Factors related to research productivity of english as a foreign language teachers of public universies in Northern Thailand. Master's Degree(Applied Linguistics). Mahidol University. : Mahidol University, 2009-03-31.
Factors related to research productivity of english as a foreign language teachers of public universies in Northern Thailand
Abstract:
This survey study was conducted: (1) to investigate the extent to which English as a Foreign Language (EFL) teachers in public universities in northern Thailand were aware of factors related to research productivity; (2) to explore research productivity produced by these EFL teachers during a three-year period (2005-2007); (3) to investigate factors related to research productivity; and (4) to explore predictive factors concerning their research productivity. The samples selected by the multi-stage sampling method were 140 faculty members from public universities in northern Thailand who were
teaching EFL courses during the academic year 2007. A set of questionnaires (α =.95) written in Thai was used as the research tool. Data analysis was based on descriptive statistics, Spearmans rho correlation and stepwise multiple regression. The major findings were as follows. (1) These EFL teachers were aware of factors which influenced their research performance. They rated the environmental response factor at the high level, and rated the factors in selfknowledge, social knowledge, and environmental condition at the medium level. (2) Their research productivity in a three-year period equaled 4.5 pieces of work per person on average. (3) Factors significantly correlated with the research productivity of these EFL teachers included: age, working years in higher education, highest education level, academic rank, conducting research before graduation, research hours, self-knowledge factors, and family responsibility. (4) Three co-factors which included: the highest education level, academic rewards, and self-knowledge could predict the research productivity of these EFL teachers. These predictors accounted for 43% (R2
= .438, p < .01). The results suggested that the administrative authority should encourage Thailands EFL faculty members to pursue the highest education level, improve reward structures, and provide effective research training courses.