An Analysis of Female Lecturers’ Participation In Civil Engineering Research And Development Activities At One Polytechnic In Zimbabwe

Abstract

This study sought to explore female lecturers’ participation in civil engineering research and development activities at one polytechnic in Zimbabwe. Case study design was chosen for this study to make predictions, narration of events, comparisons and drawing of conclusions. The female lecturers were purposively sampled to participate in the study. For data triangulation purposes male lecturers from the same department were randomly selected to take part in the study. In data generation the researcher was the chief tool aided by questionnaire with  open-ended items and personal interviews. The generated qualitative data was manually analyzed according to emerging themes. The findings of the study revealed that female lecturers’ participation in research and development activities is of paramount importance as it enables them to show case their innovative skills  in civil engineering. It was further noted that the institution in its quest to involve female lecturers in civil engineering research and development activities some challenges such as low self-esteem, lack of confidence and inadequate support are encountered. In general it can be concluded that at the institution under study, to a larger extent female lecturers have managed to participate actively in civil engineering research and development activities, despite various challenges encountered during the process. Civil Engineering lecturers’ sensitization on the importance of females’ participation in research and development activities through the provision of adequate support is recommended.

Keywords: Female lecturer, participation, research and development activities and civil engineering