Research Productivity Of Accounting Faculty: An Exploratory Study

Abstract

This study surveyed 367 accounting faculty members from AACSB accredited Colleges of Business to examine (1) their research productivity and (2) the intrinsic and extrinsic motivators to conduct research. Wide differences in research productivity were observed in the faculty associated with doctoral vs. non-doctoral granting programs. There were some common motivators of research for faculty in the two sets of programs; however, some interesting differences were also noted. Of the thirteen rewards studied, receiving or having tenure is the most important reward, while getting a possible administrative position was the least important. There were significant differences in the importance of these rewards between tenured-untenured and between male-female faculty members. Faculty perceives a strong link between research productivity and the attainment of the rewards of tenure and of promotion. However, in the minds of the faculty, the link between publications and salary increases is not strong.