Job satisfaction of staff members at two faculties of an academic institution

• Main Author: De Bruyn, Marieke
• Published: 2012
• Subjects: University academics; College teachers; Job satisfaction
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/4979

M. Comm. === This research focused on the measurement of job satisfaction in two related faculties in a higher education institution comprising 300 academic staff. The research was quantitative and non-experimental. The Job Descriptive Index was used as the basis to determine the most significant factors that contribute to job satisfaction. Five factors were identified, namely the actual job, supervision, relations with co-workers, remuneration and promotion. Sub-factors relating to these factors were identified through an in-depth literature study. A questionnaire was compiled on the basis of essence of each of these sub-factors. A statistical analysis was done using forced ranking, factor analysis, reliability analysis (Cronbach alpha), Friedman tests, spiderweb plots and correspondence analysis. From the results it is apparent that academics consider their work to be interesting, rewarding and challenging. Academics feel respected in their work context. Academics are satisfied with their supervision, which includes adequate planning and communication and the acknowledgement of excellent work. Academics are satisfied with their relations with co-workers. This includes a pleasant work environment, responsible co-workers and team work. Academics do not agree about remuneration. Most of the academics feel underpaid and regard promotion as a sensitive issue. Deviations in the results include routine work, fairness in remuneration, promotions based on equity policies and infrequent promotions. On the basis of the results of the study, it was recommended that the workload of academics should be examined, fairness in remuneration should be apparent, sound communication between the institution and its employees and the benefit of equity policies in promotions should be highlighted.