Effectiveness of teaching-learning, research and innovative actions in Hawassa University, Ethiopia

Abstract

AbstractThe study examined the effectiveness of teaching-learning, research and innovative actions in Hawassa University. The study employed a mixed method research, with concurrent triangulation design. A researcher selected the samples of the study from target population using convenience, purposive, stratified and simple random sampling techniques. Then, a researcher collected data from 421 participants using open-and-closed ended self-constructed questionnaires, unstructured interview and document examination. The data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Although exposing students to research contents and process aids understanding of knowledge construction, deep learning, networking and employability, the integration of teaching, learning, research and innovative actions inadequately contributed to technological, administrative, instructional and pedagogical innovations. The conceptualization and contextualization of the nexus between teaching learning, research and innovative actions in higher education institutions are important to promote students’ knowledge construction, deep learning and self-confidence. The study recommended that the academic staffs and postgraduates should participate in integration of teaching, learning, research and community services to improve their academic and professional capital. Instructors should use research-informed and research-based teaching and learning strategies while planning, implementing and evaluating instruction. Hawassa University should conduct tracer studies to evaluate graduates employability and improve technological, administrative, instructional and pedagogical innovations.

Keywords

• Academic and professional capital
• innovative action
• research-based-teaching and learning
• research -informed teaching and learning