Academics’ Perception on Research versus Teaching and their Recognition

Abstract

This chapter describes academics’ perception on teaching and discusses the institutional reward system of teaching in the Hong Kong context. First, it examines the academics’ perception regarding whether the value of teaching has gained or lost its importance during the last decade and whether teaching and research are compatible. Second, it discusses the institutional differences of teaching in terms of the teaching load, reward system, assessment, and personnel decision making. The institutional environment for teaching in practice varies among academics in different contexts. Thus, the chapter discusses the implications of this environment and provides recommendations on designing a proper reward system for academic teaching activities.