Faculty Research Competence, Attitudes, and Challenges in Asean Heis: Toward Institutional Accountability

Abstract

Purpose of the study: This research investigated the research competencies, attitudes, and challenges faced by faculty members in Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) located in Eastern Pangasinan, Philippines. The findings are contextualized within the frameworks of institutional accountability and ASEAN competitiveness. The Kirkpatrick Model of Evaluation was utilized to assess the interplay between individual capabilities and dispositions and organizational mechanisms, influencing overall productivity. Methodology: A descriptive quantitative approach was adopted, involving 200 faculty respondents selected at random. Data collection was conducted using a structured questionnaire, which was adapted from the Research Competencies Scale, the Attitudes Toward Research scale, and the Research Difficulty Questionnaire. Reliability testing indicated a high level of internal consistency (α = 0.95, 0.92, 0.87) Main Findings: The faculty exhibited moderate levels of competence (M = 2.63), showing strengths in dissemination and conceptualization, yet revealing weaknesses in research design. Their attitudes towards research were also moderate (M = 4.65), influenced by the pressures of workload, while the challenges encountered were consistently rated as difficult (M = 2.63), especially during the empirical and dissemination stages. Novelty/Originality of this study: In contrast to previous descriptive studies, this research uniquely combines competence, attitudes, and challenges into a unified evaluative framework through the application of the Kirkpatrick Model, providing practical insights for accreditation, quality assurance, and policies in ASEAN higher education.