Perceptions of professors from a private university about their skills and needs to develop and promote research

Abstract

Introduction: University education must be based on teaching, outreach and scientific research. Honduran universities have education policies, but there are limited research achievements. The study aim was to evaluate professor profile and the research needs at a private university in Honduras. Methods: Data collection was carried out through a digital survey sent to professors at the Centro Universitario Tecnológico (CEUTEC), part of the Universidad Tecnológica Centroamericana (UNITEC) in San Pedro Sula (SPS). Study period was the third academic quarter of 2017. A total of 160 out of 233 professors were surveyed. Factors analyzed were professors´ background, resources and interest in conducting research. Results: More than half professors reported having a master's degree. Additionally, 83% (132/160) stated they had the willingness to conduct research and publish papers. Almost all professors (94%; 150/160) reported being interested in improving their research skills. Conclusion: Based on the study results, the CEUTEC-SPS professors showed interest in training and research but need support to develop it.