Demystifying Research Productivity in Public and Private Universities: The case of Morocco

Abstract

The aim of this study wasto investigate determinants affecting research productivityin Moroccan universities. It explored5 variables, namely, Autonomy in research, incentives to publishing, recognition, working conditions anduniversity-private sector partnership and to what extent each determinant impacts research productivity.The research used was a descriptive method based on explanatory survey and bivariate statistical correlationsbetween the determinants and research performance. The sample of 150 participants among which 95 responded, was randomly chosen among private and public universities.Primary data was collected by use of questionnaires.The research suggests that only three determinants have a significant impact on research productivity, namely, recognition, incentives to publishing and working conditions. Interestingly, recognition and incentives to publishing were not the most important factors in increasing research productivity but rather working conditions and more specifically, top management support and leadership. Finally, the study revealed that despite the marketing effect of private universities advertising better education than public counterparts, findings show that both type of universities show similarity in research outcomes.The study created a base for future research that can help universities better support their research activities and indirectly the economy through transfer of knowledge especially in emerging markets.