HODS’ Authentic Leadership and Behavioural Integrity as Drivers of Faculty Members’ Motivation, Commitment, and Performance: Public University Context of Pakistan

Abstract

This research focuses to explore the authentic leadership (AL) and behavioral integrity (BI) of the head of departments (HODs) as drivers of faculty’s commitment, motivation, and performance at the university level. To conduct the research mixed-method approach has been used. The researcher used concurrent design (QUAN+ QUAL) of the mixed-method approach. The researcher conducted quantitative and qualitative studies side by side and analyzed their results to find answers to research questions. A pragmatic paradigm has been used by the researcher. The faculty members of Lahore-based divisions/campuses of a public sector university participated in the data collection process. One hundred and six faculty members responded to questionnaires, and seven faculty members, one from each campus/division, have been interviewed. A structured questionnaire was utilized to gather information from members of the faculty to distinguish the degree to which HODs are practicing AL and BI at the university level. A semi-structured interview schedule was employed to interview the faculty members to find out the impact of AL and BI of HODs on faculty performance, motivation, and commitment. Descriptive statistics were utilized to examine quantitative information and thematic analysis was used to analyze the qualitative data. It was found that the heads of departments are practicing AL and BI at a moderate level in the university. Members of the faculty recommended that heads should practice straightforwardness in their interpersonal relationships and foster a reasonable and conducive climate. Responses of interviewees show that the performance, motivation, and commitment of members of the faculty are greatly impacted by the AL and BI of their heads. It was suggested based on the results/findings that professional training of heads is required to improve their practice related to AL and BI to enhance the performance, motivation, and commitment of faculty members.