The document summarizes a study that used a Delphi inquiry model to compare views of research faculty and research administrators (RAs) at universities. It aimed to gain consensus on improving communication and relationships. Surveys asked about support for faculty, goals for RAs, and attitudes. Responses from 32 faculty and 9 RAs identified key themes like over-focus on regulations, and a need for better communication, understanding motivations, and collaboration between the two groups. The conclusion calls for improvements in communication, more support and less paperwork for faculty, increased awareness of requirements for both, and an emphasis on collaboration and partnerships going forward.

1. Reframing Research
Administration
By
Sharon Stewart Cole, PhD
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2. Purpose of Research
 To compare views of research faculty and
research administrators (RA).
 To obtain consensus for improving
communication and working relationships.
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3. Study
Methodology
 Delphi Inquiry Research Model
 Not used to determine statistical significance
 Obtains expert opinions
 Similar to focus group discussions
 Delphi participants do not meet physically
 Participants respond to online survey
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4. Survey
Questions
 What support should be offered to
Faculty?
 What future organizational goals and
objectives for RA?
 What change in faculty’s attitude towards
working with RA?
 What change in RA’s attitude towards
working with faculty?
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5. Participants
 Thirty-two (32) faculty experts participated.
And 187 were contacted.
 Nine (9) RA’s experts participated. And
110 were contacted. Three (3) attempts
were made to obtain a greater number of
participants.
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6. Highlight of Themes
for Change
 Faculty = RA’s focused on regulations too much.
 Faculty and RA’s = communication and
collaboration could be improved.
 Faculty = RA’s should understand what
motivates research faculty
 Faculty =RA’s should know faculty’s capabilities
and limitations.
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7. Framework for
Change
 View organization from different frames:
 Cultural
 Structural
 Political
 Symbolic
 Human resources
 Use the Co-operative Inquiry Approach
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8. Conclusion
 Faculty and RA’s = improvement in
communication.
 Faculty = more administrative support and
less paper work.
 RA’s= Faculty need more awareness of
regulations and electronic proposals.
 Faculty =improved financial reporting.
 RA’s and Faculty= need collaboration and
partnerships.
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