Date of Award
11-2011
Degree Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science
Department
Education, Leadership and Public Service
Program
Educational Administration: Administration and Supervision (MAE)
First Advisor/Chairperson
Christi Edge
Abstract
No two institutions are mirror images of each other such that identical descriptions, policies, procedures or needs apply to all. Such an assumption is too simplistic when universities are adequately analyzed. Northern Michigan University is a primarily undergraduate institution in the Midwest region of the United States that sits on the coast of Lake Superior, is the home of the Upper Peninsula Brain Tumor Center, offers unique outdoor resources year-round, and boasts a set of strengths, weaknesses, faculty, policies, benefits and a climate that cannot be replicated. Thus, it is distinctive, but like many other comprehensive universities, fosters a confused sense of identity. A key component involves scholarship: Tension exists in regard to scholarly activity, with some faculty believing it is a fundamental component of academia, and others consider teaching the only priority. This case study offers an in-depth look at this identity crisis, focusing on the perspectives of NMU faculty, revealing insight into the benefits of scholarship, institutional support available, and persistent challenges related to scholarly activity. Specifically, the investigation examined how faculty perceive scholarship as a role in their academic appointment specifically at NMU.
Thanks to the location, history and commitment to regional education, NMU attracts committed employees and students; however, to retain students, faculty and staff, NMU should commit to supporting scholarship, teaching and service in such a manner as to understand the support mechanisms, resources, recognition and rewards necessary to adequately balance the needs and stresses for faculty engaging in all three tasks.
Recommended Citation
Goff, Erica L. Ms., "NORTHERN MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY: A CASE STUDY OF THE PERCEPTIONS OF FACULTY SEEKING A BALANCE OF TEACHING, SCHOLARSHIP AND SERVICE" (2011). All NMU Master's Theses. 119.
https://commons.nmu.edu/theses/119
Access Type
Open Access