An Analysis of the University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City Lecturers’ Research Competence

Abstract

Improving the scientific research competence of lecturers is a critical necessity for improving the quality of the teaching staff of each higher education institution. The purpose of this study was initially to analyze the theoretical foundations of scientific research competence and the characteristics of scientific research competence among lecturers at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities (USSH, VNU-HCM). The questionnaire was used to perform this study, which included 245 lecturers from various university units, including lecturers, senior lecturers, and upper lecturers. The findings show that most lecturers at the USSH, VNU-HCM have relatively solid professional knowledge and understanding to be able to perform scientific research tasks on their own in most research activities without guidance. Most lecturers achieve the level of depth required to apply their skills in research and training tasks, as well as train others to progress from a low-to-a high-level. Meanwhile, some lecturers get to specialist level in scientific research. Similarly, only few of lecturers have self-evaluations that they are experts in scientific research. In terms of lecturers’ attitudes and awareness of research activities, most lecturers have attitudes and awareness of their scientific research activities. This study might be useful for lecturers, managers in education management, human resources management in universities in general, and lecturers in particular. The findings from this study provide the practical foundations for lecturers at the USSH, VNU-HCM, to construct a framework of scientific research competence, as well as a useful instrument in the management of teaching human resources in the university. Keywords: scientific research competence, lecturer, research competence framework, University of Social Sciences and Humanities. DOI: https://doi.org/10.55463/hkjss.issn.1021-3619.60.20