SimpsonScarborough discussed with David Wheeler, Managing Editor, Chronicle International at The Chronicle of Higher Education, the research project they are conducting in partnership with SimpsonScarborough.
A. We are trying to learn more about the interest of American academics in working outside of the country. We want to learn what motivates those academics--faculty members, administrators, and graduate students--who want to work outside of the U.S. And we want to learn about the barriers that prevent academics from applying for jobs overseas--fears they may have about what life will be like for their families or perceptions they may have about working conditions.
Q. Why did The Chronicle of Higher Education decide to do this study?
A. An intense international competition for academic talent is underway, even if it has been masked somewhat by the recession in the past year. Chronicle editors learned that many universities outside the United States have been frustrated by the lack of interest among Americans in working outside of the country.
Q. How does The Chronicle of Higher Education plan to use and apply this study?
A. Well, chiefly we will do what we always do--which is give our subscribers the best possible data and analysis and then let them use it how they wish. We also plan to use this study as a way of introducing ourselves to universities outside of the U.S. that may not be familiar with us.
Q. How do you think international higher education institutions will be able to use and apply this study?
A. They should be able to make important adjustments in how they market themselves in their recruiting efforts. The study will illuminate fears job seekers have that will need to be dealt with and motivational triggers, such as the availability of money for research, that could get them to apply for positions.
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