Research Knowledge System Model for Higher Learning Institutions

This paper reports the development of a model system through which academicians can exchange and share research knowledge (RK) in higher learning institutions (HLI). The underlying research to support this development adopted a mixed-method design using an exploratory sequential approach. Data were collected from academic staff in a Malaysian public university over a period of six months using questionnaires and in-person interviews. Quantitative and qualitative analyses were used to extract and describe the study's results. The study found that the academicians share ten types of RK, including research activities, research topics, research methods, data analysis techniques, research findings, research proposals, research papers, publication procedures, research on subject areas, and research innovation. Based on the study findings, a research knowledge system model (RKSM) was developed. The study contributes to the knowledge sharing area through the identification of RK types shared in HLI, drawn from the quantitative and qualitative results. HLI administrators could benefit from the study findings and establish policies to utilize these types of knowledge.