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ERIC Number: EJ1322465
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2021
Pages: 13
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: EISSN-2333-4851
EISSN: N/A
Preliminary Investigation of Think Tank Groups to Improve University Department Work Culture
Behrens, Timothy K.; Holeva-Eklund, Whitney M.; Clifford, Dawn; Henderson, Robert; Colleary, Caitlin
Journal of Health Education Teaching, v12 n1 p15-27 2021
Purpose: Little is known about the use of think tanks in higher education to support faculty growth and organizational culture. The purpose of this study is to explore potential benefits of think tanks within a health sciences department at a large regional university. Methods: Seven qualitative interviews of faculty that participated in at least one think tank session during the preceding year were conducted by a trained researcher. Interview questions were designed to be succinct, conversational, and open-ended. Audio recordings of interviews were transcribed, then two researchers coded responses according to recurring themes; a third researcher resolved discrepancies. Results: Central themes to emerge from the interviews include benefits for relationships, personal/professional development, and the generation of research ideas. Participants also shared barriers to attending think tanks, such as scheduling. Conclusions: Overall, think tank sessions provide a flexible environment that can encourage collaboration, promote discussion, and encourage the advancement of teaching practices and research projects. Recommendations: Universities should consider offering think tank sessions to faculty in order to forge relationships and promote collaborative work, especially within multidisciplinary departments where faculty tend to isolate into their respective disciplines.
Journal of Health Education Teaching. 9563 Wedge Way, Delmar, MD 21875. Tel: 443-880-0394; e-mail: JofHET@yahoo.com; Web site: http://jhetonline.com
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research; Tests/Questionnaires
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A