Revisiting the debate about teaching-research nexus relevance

Abstract

This article reflects on debates about research-teaching synergy. There has long been a debate regarding the synergy between research and teaching, but there is no consensus on how this enhances teaching and research at higher education institutions. The article aims to conceptualise the term research-teaching synergy and highlight challenges, arguments, and disputes that dominate the debate. It accomplishes this by reviewing a substantial body of literature covering more than three decades of intellectual debates and studies related to the research-teaching nexus. It also discusses the application and integration of research into teaching in higher education, particularly in university settings, and its impact on improving the learning environment. One of the arguments for the significance of integrating research and teaching/learning focuses on the potential benefits for undergraduate students, instilling hope for the future of higher education. This approach, known as the ‘student-focused strategy,’ can improve the quality and outcomes of students’ learning experiences. The article argues that despite the contentious issues related to the research-teaching nexus, the literature reveals that most academics consider a strong link between research and teaching as a necessary component of their job satisfaction, and there are many reasons to promote this nexus at the institutional and faculty levels.