Perceptions and Variables in Relation to Research in Higher Education: Viewpoints of Teachers of English as a Foreign Language

His promotion of research activities at primary, secondary or tertiary levels of education depends on the proper understanding of researchers’ perceptions of the nature of research. This study investigated English lecturers’ views of research, their levels of research engagement and their reasons for doing or not doing research as well as factors affecting research engagement in higher education. 79 English lecturers teaching English at universities in Isfahan participated in the study. Data for the study were collected through questionnaires and interviews. Results of data analyses showed medium to high amount of research engagement by the teachers. Lack of time was stated as the main barrier in research engagement. The data also indicated that teachers at the university demonstrate a more traditional and quantitative understanding of research. The results of this study imply that intrinsic reasons drive the lecturers to engage in research. Their reasons for not engaging in research, however, are related more too extrinsic reasons beyond their control. Implications of the results for the promotion of research are discussed.