The study may guide new policies to raise awareness among physical therapy faculty about the value of research and extension programs, aligning evaluations with the Commission on Higher Education’s objectives. A well-developed action plan could boost faculty participation in these activities. The study aimed to assess: (1) the likelihood of including research and extension criteria in performance appraisals; (2) the relationship between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation and participation; and (3) factors affecting faculty engagement in HEIs.
A mixed-method design was utilized, with a greater emphasis on quantitative over qualitative data. Seventy-five full-time faculty members from Physical Therapy programs responded to the survey. Data were collected over six months using an online questionnaire administered through Google Forms. Spearman's Rho and descriptive statistics were employed to analyze the results. Responses to open-ended questions were manually categorized using thematic analysis.
The research indicated that physical therapy faculty members are more likely to participate in research and extension activities if related criteria are included in their appraisals. Additionally, the study revealed a significant relationship between the intent to participate in research and extension activities and intrinsic motivation, whereas no significant association was found with extrinsic motivation. Professional development emerged as a strong intrinsic motivator.
The researcher found that instruction-related criteria are more prominent than research and extension criteria in the performance appraisals used by Philippine Physical Therapy schools. Including these criteria in appraisals could increase participation in research and extension activities. Both intrinsic and extrinsic factors can motivate full-time physical therapy faculty, but a significant relationship was only found between intrinsic motivation and the intention to participate. Key motivators include professional development, remuneration, recognition, and rewards, which HEIs should consider to enhance faculty participation. Limitation: The study's results apply to full-time physical therapy faculty members. While the sample is representative based on board exam takers and physical therapy schools, the findings may not generalize to other disciplines or more established fields like nursing and medical technology. Additionally, the sample indicated that most participants were in the early stages of their careers.
Academic institutions should include research and extension-related criteria in performance appraisals and leverage intrinsic motivators to boost faculty participation. Clear expectations in appraisals and a strong policy aligned with the institution’s vision are crucial for success. This research offers valuable insights for Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) with physical therapy programs, helping to enhance faculty engagement in research and extension activities. It can guide administrators in improving appraisal tools and increasing faculty involvement in these areas, aiming to refine performance appraisal processes related to research and extension.
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