HOW DO DOCTORAL RESEARCH ACADEMICS PERCEIVE THEIR RESEARCH ACTIVITIES TO BE OF BENEFIT TO UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS?

The principal rationale for this research paper is to discuss the link between a lecturers Doctoral research activity and its perceived benefits or drawbacks for undergraduate students in todays' Higher Education Institutions (HEI's). The perceptions that six Doctoral academics have with regard to the impact their work has on such students was specifically investigated. In-depth interviews with them gleaned research results which demonstrate the degree to which their research activities have positive or negative consequences for undergraduate students. Broadly speaking, three main types of activities were identified as having a positive impact, First was the topic-specific 'cutting-edge' knowledge that was perceived as beneficial to students. Secondly, the broad-based liberal learning ethos they brought to their teaching added value, whereby some students basked in their 'reflected glory'. Thirdly, their specific research methods skills were of benefit, especially to Dissertation students. A contrary perspective identified the following three drawbacks. Firstly, sometimes a Doctoral research academics knowledge was 'pitched' at inappropriate or too high a level for undergraduate students' abilities. The inaccessibility of such staff to these students was a second issue that was problematic. Thirdly, a disconnect between such academics and the actual ownership and relevance of such their work to the students and their future careers was examined. Other discussion points The roles of college management and academics in working together to ensure there is link between what these academics do when it comes to teaching undergraduates is examined. The work and expertise of such academics and the need for their work to be targeted and disseminated properly to this large student cohort is dealt with. That such a significant segment of the student population deserve to gain maximum benefit from all Doctoral research work in HEI's should not be a matter for debate. Very often however, as identified in my research, they are the student grouping who, without proper management could benefit least due to myriad issues investigated as part of my research for this paper. Overall, the assumption of a unity between research and teaching is investigated. The debate on this sometimes natural and at other times, vexed link between the two in today's HEI's is addressed. In conclusion, the many significant changes in higher education which have challenged the relationship between the two are touched upon. These include: The move to a mass higher education system The amount of time and priority given to teaching and research Management and governmental policy (Internationally and in Ireland) towards the two and attitudes towards research funding and return on investment.