Motivation and the academic – where the drivers sit. Issue 6 (11th July 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Johnston, Alan
• Is Part Of: Journal of management development. Volume 35:Issue 6(2016)
• Page Start: 765
• Page End: 777
• Publication Date: 2016-07-11
• Subjects: Higher education -- Academics -- Motivational drivers; Executives -- Training of -- Periodicals; Middle managers -- Training of -- Periodicals; Management -- Study and teaching -- Periodicals; 658.407124
• DOI: 10.1108/JMD-09-2015-0140
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0262-1711

Abstract

Abstract : Purpose: – The purpose of this paper is to investigate the key drivers for motivation within a small team of academics within a relatively small UK university. Design/methodology/approach: – The research follows a combined interpretivist and ethnographic stance and using a mixed methods approach. Findings: – The research identifies that fundamentally academics are driven by the desire for expertise and a search for meaning, while material reward and a need for power play a low significance in their forces. Also increase in managerialism has led to reductions in motivation. Research limitations/implications: – The paper provides a limited focus due to the nature of being a small scale study. Practical implications: – The paper considers the drivers which motivate academics. Managers and HR departments may consider approaches to managing and leading individuals to achieve improved organisational performance. Originality/value: – The paper focuses on motivational drivers within the academy.