Date of Graduation

5-2025

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Education in Adult and Lifelong Learning (EdD)

Degree Level

Graduate

Department

Counseling, Leadership, and Research Methods

Advisor/Mentor

Roessger, Kevin M.

Committee Member

Goering, Christian Z.

Second Committee Member

Liang, Xinya

Keywords

COVID-19; Preregistered Study; Publication; Scholarly; Scholars’ Publication; Uneven Disruptions

Abstract

This proposed, preregistered study investigates the uneven impacts of COVID-19 on scholarly productivity among University of Arkansas faculty, focusing on how demographic and professional factors—such as gender, ethnicity, academic rank, tenure status, field of study, and the presence of children—may have moderated productivity during the pandemic. Utilizing a non-experimental, cross-sectional design, this research will collect data from 160 full-time faculty members through an online survey. Grounded in Role Theory, the study will examine role conflict and enrichment as faculty navigated shifting responsibilities in research, teaching, and caregiving during remote work. This study is particularly relevant as many assistant professors who were active during the pandemic now face critical tenure decisions, highlighting the urgency of understanding COVID-19’s impact on early-career academics.

The primary objective is to assess whether the presence of children in faculty households moderates the relationship between productivity and other demographic factors, thereby addressing a key research gap on the compounded challenges facing academic caregivers. Anticipated findings aim to reveal structural disparities impacting academic outputs and to inform recommendations for institutional policies that bolster resilience and equity in higher education. This study’s outcomes will support evidence-based strategies to address the unique challenges experienced by underrepresented groups, fostering a more adaptable and inclusive academic environment for future crises.

Download

Share

COinS