An exploration of the factors that contribute to or impede research activity among social work academics in the UK

Social work research in the UK has been described as ‘piecemeal, patchy and small scale’ (Sharland, 2009, p. 140), and constrained by academics’ teaching and administrative responsibilities (Lyons, 2000). A... [ view full abstract ]

Social work research in the UK has been described as ‘piecemeal, patchy and small scale’ (Sharland, 2009, p. 140), and constrained by academics’ teaching and administrative responsibilities (Lyons, 2000). A cross-sectional study into the UK academic workforce has been conducted by the presenters to learn more about factors contributing to/impeding research activity. Findings presented include: the level of research activity by social work academics; their qualifications; their preferred research methodologies; the proportion of academics’ time that universities expect to be on research, teaching, and administration and how this compares to the actual time spent; and the factors that contribute to or impede research activity.

An online survey was distributed to social work academics across the UK in May-June of 2014. Data were collected on the characteristics of the academics (N=202) and their research support, expectations, and activity. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, bivariate analyses, and multiple regression analysis. Nearly 73% of social work academics described themselves as research active but spent less time on research activities (M = 20.91, SD = 18.91) than was expected by their universities (M = 32.28, SD = 17.22), t(157) = 6.15, p < .001, and more time on administration (M = 39.10; SD = 18.64) than was expected of their universities (M = 22.42; SD = 11.90), t(162) = -11.00, p < .001.

The survey was complemented by eleven qualitative interviews to consider the issues in greater depth. These data were analysed using Nvivo and the two data sets have been interrogated and combined to identify a snapshot of the research activity of UK social work academics. This presentation will identify key messages about the state of research in social work in the UK and advice for social work academics who wish to develop their research careers.