Differential effect of age in academia: a three-way interaction effect of age, technological aids and knowledge sharing on research output

Abstract

PurposeAmidst the concerns surrounding knowledge sharing, especially in academia, the study attempts to understand its impact on Research output. To deepen our understanding, the study considered the differing impact of age on knowledge sharing and research output through the lens of Continuity Theory and Socioemotional Selectivity Theory.Design/methodology/approachData were collected from 385 faculties working in higher education institutions in India. The study uses Hierarchical regression analysis in SPSS 22.0 to test the hypotheses proposed.FindingsA three-way interaction analysis of 385 faculties confirmed our presumption that the effect of knowledge sharing on research output was different for the two-age groups. Surprisingly, the positive effect of knowledge sharing on research output was stronger in older faculties than younger ones. However, technology usage and its effect on research output, declined with age.Research limitations/implicationsFindings gave interesting insights which contradict our earlier notions of increasing age and suggest that instead of blaming increasing age alone for the reduced output, attention must be paid towards other hidden influencing factors.Originality/valueThe study is the first of its kind that investigates the effectiveness of knowledge sharing in academia and the impact of age on the underlying phenomenon. This study makes a novel attempt to deepen our understanding of the impact of age on research output.