A call for innovation culture in Polish academics’ vision of an ideal-type university

Abstract

ABSTRACT This article aims to explore the innovation-related qualities of an ideal-type university as perceived by Polish academics at a public university who are characterized by attachment to the tradition of academic self-governance, Humboldtian ideals, autonomy, and academic freedom. The study employs Weberian ideal-type methodology and analyzes qualitative data from 12 online focus groups involving 49 academics. The research unveils their perspectives on key organizational culture facets, categorized under: mission, leadership, socialization, information, and strategy. The findings highlight that academics envision an ideal-type university as an institution that nurtures conditions conducive to innovation. Such an institution fosters an organizational culture that champions openness, diversity, creativity, and constructive dialogue, thereby fostering inter- and multidisciplinary collaborations transcending traditional boundaries. Their ideal university model promotes an innovation culture to unlock academic staff potential, fostering capabilities, agency, self-efficacy, and entrepreneurship. Addressing a research gap in the contemporary analysis of the needs and desires of Polish academics this study serves also as a foundational reference for future investigations into the alignment of their vision with the actual landscape, while also generating inquiries and hypotheses to understand variations. By informing decisions, strategies, and practices linked to fostering innovation within higher education institutions, this study tackles the universally recognized challenge of stimulating innovation within academia. Consequently, it offers insights for policy formulation and practical implementation within the realms of higher education and innovation management, extending beyond Poland to broader international contexts grappling with challenges like bureaucracy, excessive regulation, and hierarchical structures.