If not A, then B and C won't follow: The role of research in an institutional success algorithm. Dr. Jens J. Hansen, Miki Roderick Waiariki Institute of Technology

The title? Institutional research success, highly effective teaching, and student academic excellence are interrelated but just how, if at all, can this interrelationship be explained and harnessed?

The title? Is the interrelationship a myth?  If A = Research  and B = Effective Teaching (which is meant to be informed by A)  and C = Student Performance (which is meant to grow because of B that is informed by A)  then it follows that if not A, … B and C, not so much won’t follow, but rather, might not follow…

Is research a pre-condition to success? A rich and active institutional research culture is probably a necessary pre-condition to growing effective faculty teaching and, consequently, to promoting improvements in scholastic standards. There’s growing evidence which suggests that research is PBRF driven and yet there are time constraints and skills deficits; Also, a range of stresses occur in part because of the paucity of time available for research (Fergusson, 2003).

If Research is a Cinderella does that mean teaching and learning are ugly sisters? Are we clear in the ITP research sector as to why we are actually doing it? Is research the Cinderella of the ITP sector? Probably the answer is yes so it needs to emerge from the Ashes; How best then, can academics from our sector (who are busy, busy, busy with other things like teaching and learning), learn to become researchers?

Managing the Scenarios You may be on the right track … but if you stand still you are in danger of being run over. (Mark Twain) The need to overcome fear of change. Laughing at fear… …laughing hysterically

Researching for What purpose? There are large amounts of research monies that are not necessarily in areas that are either accessible or relevant to the core business functions of ITPs; Is it about enhancing academic capacity & contributing to the knowledge economy or about supporting the institution’s financial need?

Seven points to consider 1. There must be a clear intent and purpose. 2. Seek to grow a research culture that supports the intent. 3. Target niche market areas. 4. Invest in the growing of staff capacity. 5. Achieve collaboration through relationship building. 6. Build it all and they will come. 7. Demonstrate patience but with a planned haste and passion.