Building a Research Culture from Scratch at a University of Technology

Abstract

Universities of Technology in South Africa have emerged from a low research base. Despite this, it is argued that it is possible to develop a research culture at such institutions especially through Research Communities of Practice. This is evident from the data analysed of Research Capacity Development Programmes hosted at the institution from 2008 to 2011. The results show that a research culture is emerging at the institution but that for a research culture to be institutionalised, institutional attributes need to be strengthened. Of particular importance is the development of the research leadership of Heads of Department.

DOI: 10.5901/mjss.2014.v5n1p151