A Case Study on Lecturers’ Perception on Research in Teaching and Learning

Abstract

This research paper aimed to explore the perceptions of a group of lecturers in the selected college program towards the notion of research in teaching and learning, in the context of their course. The study also sought to understand the perceived benefits of the process towards teaching and learning, as well as any limitations or challenges of this process within the context of its implementation in the college program. In this qualitative case study, six participants were identified from the college program via a non-random purposive sampling, gaining data from interviews. Findings indicated that while teachers perceived that research in teaching and learning would enhance personal and professional development among teachers as well as foster a student-centered learning environment, there were constraints in terms of time, finances, support, acceptance, collaboration and issues surrounding the research process itself. The findings provide an insider's perspective on the strengths and challenges as experienced by the participants who conducted or would potentially conduct some form of research in teaching and learning. This will benefit both practitioners and policy makers in further understanding the various aspects of research in teaching and learning as well as the challenges that might arise while implementing and conducting research in teaching and learning, particularly in the context of the selected college program. This will potentially benefit institutions of learning and teachers who are keen to engage in research in teaching and learning.