Preliminary Investigation of Think Tank Groups to Improve University Department Work Culture
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| Title: | Preliminary Investigation of Think Tank Groups to Improve University Department Work Culture |
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| Language: | English |
| Authors: | Behrens, Timothy K., Holeva-Eklund, Whitney M., Clifford, Dawn, Henderson, Robert, Colleary, Caitlin |
| Source: | Journal of Health Education Teaching. 2021 12(1):15-27. |
| Availability: | Journal of Health Education Teaching. 9563 Wedge Way, Delmar, MD 21875. Tel: 443-880-0394; e-mail: JofHET@yahoo.com; Web site: http://jhetonline.com |
| Peer Reviewed: | Y |
| Page Count: | 13 |
| Publication Date: | 2021 |
| Document Type: | Journal Articles Reports - Research Tests/Questionnaires |
| Education Level: | Higher Education Postsecondary Education |
| Descriptors: | Departments, Universities, Organizational Culture, Work Environment, Faculty Development, College Faculty, Health Sciences, Teacher Collaboration, Discussion Groups, Brainstorming, Collegiality, Interdisciplinary Approach, Peer Relationship |
| ISSN: | 2333-4851 |
| Abstract: | Purpose: Little is known about the use of think tanks in higher education to support faculty growth and organizational culture. The purpose of this study is to explore potential benefits of think tanks within a health sciences department at a large regional university. Methods: Seven qualitative interviews of faculty that participated in at least one think tank session during the preceding year were conducted by a trained researcher. Interview questions were designed to be succinct, conversational, and open-ended. Audio recordings of interviews were transcribed, then two researchers coded responses according to recurring themes; a third researcher resolved discrepancies. Results: Central themes to emerge from the interviews include benefits for relationships, personal/professional development, and the generation of research ideas. Participants also shared barriers to attending think tanks, such as scheduling. Conclusions: Overall, think tank sessions provide a flexible environment that can encourage collaboration, promote discussion, and encourage the advancement of teaching practices and research projects. Recommendations: Universities should consider offering think tank sessions to faculty in order to forge relationships and promote collaborative work, especially within multidisciplinary departments where faculty tend to isolate into their respective disciplines. |
| Abstractor: | As Provided |
| Entry Date: | 2022 |
| Accession Number: | EJ1322465 |
| Database: | ERIC |
| Abstract: | Purpose: Little is known about the use of think tanks in higher education to support faculty growth and organizational culture. The purpose of this study is to explore potential benefits of think tanks within a health sciences department at a large regional university. Methods: Seven qualitative interviews of faculty that participated in at least one think tank session during the preceding year were conducted by a trained researcher. Interview questions were designed to be succinct, conversational, and open-ended. Audio recordings of interviews were transcribed, then two researchers coded responses according to recurring themes; a third researcher resolved discrepancies. Results: Central themes to emerge from the interviews include benefits for relationships, personal/professional development, and the generation of research ideas. Participants also shared barriers to attending think tanks, such as scheduling. Conclusions: Overall, think tank sessions provide a flexible environment that can encourage collaboration, promote discussion, and encourage the advancement of teaching practices and research projects. Recommendations: Universities should consider offering think tank sessions to faculty in order to forge relationships and promote collaborative work, especially within multidisciplinary departments where faculty tend to isolate into their respective disciplines. |
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| ISSN: | 2333-4851 |
