Enhancement of junior academics professionalism through research and development activities in an Iranian Medical University

Abstract

Although research is one of the main duties of academics, research development is being ignored, and consequently academics are puzzled about their research activities. The purpose of the study is to examine the process of research development through professional development activities among medical junior academics at an Iran medical university. In addition, culture, context and environment of research as the main aspects of the process are questioned to precede the study. Methodologically, the study is designed based on qualitative approach applying grounded theory method with constructivist design. Various sources are used for data collection such as interview, observation, documentation, and open-ended questions. Thirty-five lecturers answered the open-ended questions and twenty-two lecturers participated in interviews. The elicited phenomenon from the data analysis is labelled as inefficient juniors in research activities. Moreover, the draft theory of Research Development Trajectory is configured to describe the process of junior academics’ research development through professional development activities. The categories are organized and presented in specific sections of the process. Firstly, co-textual category includes research environment and research context. Secondly, strategic category consists of managerial functions. Thirdly, causal category includes learning characteristics and learning activities Fourthly, consequential category includes positive and negative outcomes of junior academics’ research development at different levels. Amidst numerous theories to modify the draft theory, relevant theories of this study are known as complexity theory, action theory, change theory, field theory, adult learning theory, and activity theory. Consequently, constructed theory influences the success of professional development programmes by giving knowledge to different beneficiaries. Thus, the theory of Junior Research Development is a comprehensive guideline that can abet the targeted university in order to enhance quality and quantity of research products through developing junior academics’ research.