Acessibilidade / Reportar erro

Credentiating or not in graduate programs: the perception of professors from a public institution

Abstract

The objective of this study was to identify the perception of doctoral staff members regarding their involvement in graduate programs considering motivational, personal, and organizational factors. A questionnaire was administered to 502 PhD professors from graduate programs at a public institution of higher education, obtaining 113 valid answers. The data were analyzed using the statistical software R. The results indicated that the affiliation to the graduate programs is linked to the affective dimension, as enjoying what they do (motivational) and their relationship with students (organizational) were the most highlighted factors. When asked about what would lead them to self-discredit, the individual dimension was emphasized, particularly concerning aspects related to a lack of personal fulfillment with the activity and personal or family health issues. Structural issues were also indicated, although not predominant. The strong connection of the professors' motivation related to personal and motivational factors may explain why these professionals choose to remain accredited in graduate programs in adverse conditions.

Keywords:
motivation; affective; precariousness; professors; career

Resumo

O objetivo deste estudo foi identificar a percepção de servidores doutores em relação à sua atuação na pós-graduação articulada a fatores motivacionais, pessoais e organizacionais. Aplicou-se um questionário a 502 professores doutores de programas de pós-graduação de uma instituição pública de ensino superior, obtendo-se 113 respostas válidas. Analisaram-se os dados utilizando o software estatístico R. Os resultados indicaram que a vinculação à pós-graduação está ligada à dimensão afetiva, visto que gostar do que faz (motivacional) e o relacionamento com os alunos (organizacional) foram os fatores mais destacados. Quando questionados sobre o que os levaria a se descredenciar, destacou-se a dimensão individual nos aspectos relacionados à falta de realização pessoal com a atividade e ao adoecimento pessoal ou familiar. Também indicaram questões estruturais, embora não predominantes. A forte vinculação da motivação docente relacionada a fatores pessoais e motivacionais pode explicar por que, em condições adversas, esses profissionais optam por permanecer credenciados na pós-graduação.

Palavras-chave:
motivação; afetivo; precarização; professores; carreira

Resumen

El objetivo de este estudio fue identificar la percepción de los servidores doctores con respecto a su participación en el posgrado, articulado a factores motivacionales, personales y organizacionales. Se aplicó un cuestionario a 502 profesores doctores de programas de posgrado en una institución pública de educación superior, obteniéndose 113 respuestas válido. Los datos fueron analizados utilizando el software estadístico R. Los resultados indicaron que la vinculación a el posgrado está relacionada con la dimensión afectiva. Cuando se les preguntó sobre lo que los llevaría a desvincularse, se destacó la dimensión individual en aspectos relacionados con la falta de realización personal con la actividad y problemas de salud personal o familiar. También se señalaron cuestiones estructurales, aunque no predominantes. La fuerte conexión de la motivación docente con factores personales y motivacionales, puede explicar por qué estos profesionales optan por permanecer habilitados en posgrado en condiciones adversas.

Palavras clave:
motivación; afectivo; precarización; professores; carrera

1 Introduction

In Brazil, research has a strong connection with universities and the graduate system, assuming an important role in the training of researchers and the production of knowledge and technologies. Thus, the development of graduate programs (GP) in higher education institutions is essential to enhance national and regional scientific and technological competencies (ALVES; MARICATO; MARTINS, 2015ALVES, Itala Moreira; MARICATO, João de Melo; MARTINS, Dalton Lopes. Fatores que interferem no (não) credenciamento de pesquisadores em programas de pós-graduação: um estudo nas universidades públicas em Goiás. Em Questão, Porto Alegre, v. 21, n. 1, p. 150-171, 2015. DOI: https://doi.org/10.19132/1808-5245211.150-172. Disponível em: https://seer.ufrgs.br/index.php/EmQuestao/article/view/50145. Acesso em: 23 ago. 2021.
https://doi.org/10.19132/1808-5245211.15...
).

According to Alves, Maricato, and Martins (2015)ALVES, Itala Moreira; MARICATO, João de Melo; MARTINS, Dalton Lopes. Fatores que interferem no (não) credenciamento de pesquisadores em programas de pós-graduação: um estudo nas universidades públicas em Goiás. Em Questão, Porto Alegre, v. 21, n. 1, p. 150-171, 2015. DOI: https://doi.org/10.19132/1808-5245211.150-172. Disponível em: https://seer.ufrgs.br/index.php/EmQuestao/article/view/50145. Acesso em: 23 ago. 2021.
https://doi.org/10.19132/1808-5245211.15...
, there are two main reasons that led to the creation of graduate education in Brazil. The first is based on the recognition of a lack of highly qualified personnel at that time to manage projects for the country's development, and the second is related to the expansion of higher education, which generated the need to enhance the teaching staff. This process materialized between 1930 and 1960, with the creation of the University of São Paulo in 1934 and the University of Brasília in 1961 (BALBACHEVSKY, 2005BALBACHEVSKY, Elizabeth. A pós-graduação no Brasil: novos desafios para uma política bemsucedida. In: BROCK, Colin; SCHWARTZMAN, Simon (eds.). Os desafios da educação no Brasil. Rio de Janeiro: Nova Fronteira, 2005. v. 1, p. 285-314. Disponível em: http://www.schwartzman.org.br/simon/desafios/1desafios.pdf. Acesso: 10 ago. 2021.
http://www.schwartzman.org.br/simon/desa...
). During the same period, Coordination for the Improvement of Higher Education Personnel (Capes) was established.

In 1965, institutionalization of this process occurred when Opinion Sucupira 977, approved by the National Council of Education, recognized graduate education as a level of instruction (Nobre; Freitas, 2017NOBRE, Lorena Neves; FREITAS, Rodrigo Randow. A evolução da pós-graduação no Brasil: histórico, políticas e avaliação. Brazilian Journal of Production Engineering-BJPE, Espírito Santo, v. 3, n. 2, p. 26-39, 2017. Disponível em: https://periodicos.ufes.br/bjpe/article/view/v3n2_3. Acesso em: 5 ago. 2023.
https://periodicos.ufes.br/bjpe/article/...
). In this context, in the mid-1970s, graduate education began to occupy a privileged place in scientific and technological development with financial support from the Financier of Studies and Projects (Finep), the National Fund for Scientific and Technological Development (FNCT), and the National Bank for Economic and Social Development (BNDES) (BALBACHEVSKY, 2005BALBACHEVSKY, Elizabeth. A pós-graduação no Brasil: novos desafios para uma política bemsucedida. In: BROCK, Colin; SCHWARTZMAN, Simon (eds.). Os desafios da educação no Brasil. Rio de Janeiro: Nova Fronteira, 2005. v. 1, p. 285-314. Disponível em: http://www.schwartzman.org.br/simon/desafios/1desafios.pdf. Acesso: 10 ago. 2021.
http://www.schwartzman.org.br/simon/desa...
).

During this period, resources were allocated directly to professors to overcome the bureaucratic difficulties of university administration, resulting in asymmetry in the distribution of this funding (BALBACHEVSKY, 2005BALBACHEVSKY, Elizabeth. A pós-graduação no Brasil: novos desafios para uma política bemsucedida. In: BROCK, Colin; SCHWARTZMAN, Simon (eds.). Os desafios da educação no Brasil. Rio de Janeiro: Nova Fronteira, 2005. v. 1, p. 285-314. Disponível em: http://www.schwartzman.org.br/simon/desafios/1desafios.pdf. Acesso: 10 ago. 2021.
http://www.schwartzman.org.br/simon/desa...
). Researchers have begun to assume a prominent role, especially in those who have access to research resources.

In 1975, the National Graduate Plan (PNPG) was created with the goal of structuring research systems and establishing connections with the productive sector and public sphere. These plans are reviewed every four years to gradually establish evaluation criteria that shape quality standards and academic careers. This process was formalized in 1976 when Capes was restructured and started to use more transparent evaluation criteria with a strong quantitative tendency, referencing international standards (HOSTINS, 2006HOSTINS, Regina Célia Linhares. Os Planos Nacionais de Pós-graduação (PNPG) e suas repercussões na Pós-graduação brasileira. Perspectiva, Santa Catarina, v. 24, n. 1, p. 133-160, 2006. DOI: https://doi.org/10.5007/%25x. Disponível em: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Regina-Hostins/publication/228618902_Os_Planos_Nacionais_de_Pos-graduacao_PNPG_e_suas_repercussoes_na_Pos-graduacao_brasileira/links/55d4664308ae0b8f3ef9e43b/Os-Planos-Nacionais-de-Pos-graduacao-PNPG-e-suas-repercussoes-na-Pos-graduacao-brasileira.pdf. Acesso: 12 jun. 2021.
https://doi.org/10.5007/%25x...
).

In 1998, Capes (2020)CAPES. Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior. Avaliação da Pós-Graduação. Brasília, 12 nov. 2020. Disponível em: https://www.gov.br/capes/pt-br/acesso-a-informacao/acoes-e-programas/avaliacao/sobre-a-avaliacao/avaliacao-o-que-e/sobre-a-avaliacao-conceitos-processos-e-normas. Acesso em: 27 de ago. 2021.
https://www.gov.br/capes/pt-br/acesso-a-...
created Qualis, which established the evaluation criteria and scoring for academic production by stratifying journals, thereby feeding the data collection system. Additionally, they developed an application called Coleta Capes1 1 “CAPES Data Collection is an application provided by CAPES for the evaluation of stricto sensu graduate programs in Brazil (PPGs). Every year, Institutions offering Master's and/or Doctoral degrees must complete this application in order for their courses to be evaluated. Its correct completion will influence a good evaluation.”. (SCHERER et al., 2012, p. 57SCHERER, Carolina; REMPEL, Claudete; NEUMANN MARTINS, Silvana; HAETINGER, Claus. Importância de um secretário executivo no preenchimento do aplicativo, coleta de dados, Capes. Revista de Gestão e Secretariado (Management and Administrative Professional Review), Paraná, v. 3, n. 1, p. 54-67, 2012. Disponível em: https://www.redalyc.org/articulo.oa?id=435641689004. Acesso em: 5 ago. 2023.
https://www.redalyc.org/articulo.oa?id=4...
), which became a reference point for evaluating programs and affiliated faculty members (BALBACHEVSKY, 2005BALBACHEVSKY, Elizabeth. A pós-graduação no Brasil: novos desafios para uma política bemsucedida. In: BROCK, Colin; SCHWARTZMAN, Simon (eds.). Os desafios da educação no Brasil. Rio de Janeiro: Nova Fronteira, 2005. v. 1, p. 285-314. Disponível em: http://www.schwartzman.org.br/simon/desafios/1desafios.pdf. Acesso: 10 ago. 2021.
http://www.schwartzman.org.br/simon/desa...
). In 1998, the Lattes Platform was created and launched on August 6, 1999, becoming the standard for recording the academic activities of researchers in the country (NOBRE; FREITAS 2017NOBRE, Lorena Neves; FREITAS, Rodrigo Randow. A evolução da pós-graduação no Brasil: histórico, políticas e avaliação. Brazilian Journal of Production Engineering-BJPE, Espírito Santo, v. 3, n. 2, p. 26-39, 2017. Disponível em: https://periodicos.ufes.br/bjpe/article/view/v3n2_3. Acesso em: 5 ago. 2023.
https://periodicos.ufes.br/bjpe/article/...
). Therefore, this period was marked by the institutionalization of the evaluation process for graduate education (stricto sensu) in Brazil, with faculty members affiliated with programs having their activities guided by these directives.

The role of faculty members in higher education extends beyond that of the graduate system. According to Correa and Lourenço (2015)CORREA, Marcos Vinícius Pereira; LOURENÇO, Mariane Lemos. A constituição da identidade dos professores de pós-graduação stricto sensu em duas instituições de ensino superior: um estudo baseado nas relações de poder e papéis em organizações. Cadernos Ebape BR, São Paulo: FGV, v. 14, p. 858-871, 2015. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1590/1679-395145075. Disponível em: https://www.scielo.br/j/cebape/a/FP9fxqBJGbP9Zxtqtrvv7sH/?lang=pt. Acesso em: 15 fev. 2021.
https://doi.org/10.1590/1679-395145075...
, their roles encompass various aspects such as research, extension, education and training, event participation and organization, publications, evaluation of scientific work, and administrative positions. The Law of Guidelines and Bases of National Education (LDB) establishes that the minimum workload for faculty members in higher education is eight hours of teaching per week. The remaining hours are used to complete the necessary work hours according to the established work regimen for research, extension, and guidance (BRASIL, 1996BRASIL. Lei nº 9.394, de 20 de dezembro de 1996. Estabelece as diretrizes e bases da educação nacional. Diário Oficial da União, Brasília-DF, 23 dez. 1996. Disponível em: http://www.planalto.gov.br/ccivil_03/leis/L9394.htm. Acesso em: 12 mar. 2021.
http://www.planalto.gov.br/ccivil_03/lei...
). Furthermore, the progression processes in the teaching career, especially in public universities, according to Law No. 12.772/2012, are related to teaching, research, extension, and administrative activities (BRASIL, 2012BRASIL. Lei nº 12.772, de 28 de dezembro de 2012. Dispõe sobre a estruturação do Plano de Carreiras e Cargos de Magistério Federal; [...] e dá outras providências. Diário Oficial da União, Brasília-DF, 31 dez. 2012. Disponível em: http://www.planalto.gov.br/ccivil_03/_ato2011-2014/2012/lei/l12772.htm. Acesso em: 12 mar. 2021.
http://www.planalto.gov.br/ccivil_03/_at...
).

The evaluation methods of Capes (2020)CAPES. Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior. Avaliação da Pós-Graduação. Brasília, 12 nov. 2020. Disponível em: https://www.gov.br/capes/pt-br/acesso-a-informacao/acoes-e-programas/avaliacao/sobre-a-avaliacao/avaliacao-o-que-e/sobre-a-avaliacao-conceitos-processos-e-normas. Acesso em: 27 de ago. 2021.
https://www.gov.br/capes/pt-br/acesso-a-...
have favored the quantitative assessment criteria that Vosgerau, Orlando, and Meyer (2017)VOSGERAU, Dilmeire Sant’Anna Ramos; ORLANDO, Evelyn de Almeida; MEYER, Patricia. Produtivismo acadêmico e suas repercussões no desenvolvimento profissional de professores universitários. Educação & Sociedade, São Paulo, v. 38, p. 231-247, 2017. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1590/ES0101-73302016163514. Disponível em: https://www.scielo.br/j/es/a/gtMMDrjZdhX8Q7yb5W5XqjN/abstract/?lang=pt. Acesso em: 12 ago. 2021.
https://doi.org/10.1590/ES0101-733020161...
refer to as academic productivity. Sguissardi and Silva Júnior (2009)SGUISSARDI, Valdemar; SILVA JÚNIOR, João dos Reis. Trabalho intensificado nas federais: pós-graduação e produtivismo acadêmico. São Paulo: Xamã, 2009. Disponível em: https://revistas.ufg.br/interacao/article/view/15045/9330. Acesso em: 20 out. 2021.
https://revistas.ufg.br/interacao/articl...
added that this logic imposed on academic work deconstructs the concept of inseparability, as it prioritizes research and places extension activities in the background, which in turn receive less funding. The competency of university members should be associated with the complexity of the university's mission, meaning that there should be no detachment between teaching, research, and extension; rather, there should be dynamic dialogue among them in which students are engaged (SIQUEIRA et al., 2012SIQUEIRA, Elisabete Stradiotto; BINOTTO, Erlaine; SILVA, Fabiula Meneguete Vidas da; HOFF, Débora Nayar. Seleção de docentes em universidades federais: uma análise dos regulamentos. Revista Ensaio: Avaliação e Políticas Públicas em Educação, Rio de Janeiro, v. 20, n. 77, p. 725-748, 2012. Disponível em: http://www.scielo.br/pdf/ensaio/v20n77/a06v20n77.pdf. Acesso: 10 fev. 2021.
http://www.scielo.br/pdf/ensaio/v20n77/a...
). The hierarchy established among teaching, research, and extension fragments the work, but the demand for inseparability remains in the demands of this profession, even in the 1988 Constitution.

Sguissardi and Silva Júnior (2009)SGUISSARDI, Valdemar; SILVA JÚNIOR, João dos Reis. Trabalho intensificado nas federais: pós-graduação e produtivismo acadêmico. São Paulo: Xamã, 2009. Disponível em: https://revistas.ufg.br/interacao/article/view/15045/9330. Acesso em: 20 out. 2021.
https://revistas.ufg.br/interacao/articl...
highlighted that the effects of academic productivity lead to the intensification and precariousness of university researchers’ work in Brazilian postgraduate programs. The authors found evidence that the precarious working conditions of university members in graduate programs led them to prioritize research over teaching and extension, showing a separation between research and teaching. Another aspect highlighted by Godoi and Xavier (2012)GODOI, Christiane Kleinübing; XAVIER, Wlamir Gonçalves. O produtivismo e suas anomalias. Cadernos EBAPE, São Paulo, v. 10, n. 2, p. 456–465, 2012. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1590/s1679-39512012000200012. Disponível em: https://www.scielo.br/j/cebape/a/vPzYx3HtGmPmfxzFfKVZD8n/. Acesso em: 13 jun. 2021.
https://doi.org/10.1590/s1679-3951201200...
is the competition among university members in programs at higher education institutions, extending to students, intensifying internal disputes, and creating a stressful work environment.

Nunes and Torga (2020)NUNES, Thiago Soares; TORGA, Eliana Marcia Martins Fittipaldi. Workplace bullying in postgraduate courses: the consequences experienced by teachers and students of a Brazilian state university. Education Policy Analysis Archives, USA, v. 28, n. 11, p. 1-23, 2020. DOI: https://doi.org/10.14507/epaa.28.4883. Disponível em: https://epaa.asu.edu/index.php/epaa/article/view/4883. Acesso em: 20 out. 2021.
https://doi.org/10.14507/epaa.28.4883...
align with this perspective on the precariousness of university work, affirming that while engagement in graduate programs provides prestige/status to university members and the potential to contribute to solving societal problems, it is also accompanied by demands for productivity, competition among university members, and, at times, even moral harassment involving students.

In this context, considering the complexity of university work and psychosocial risks resulting from evaluation methods and overlapping activities, several studies on this topic have been highlighted.

Nyquist, Hitchcock, and Teherani (2000)NYQUIST, Julie G.; HITCHCOCK, Maurice A.; TEHERANI, Arianne. Faculty satisfaction in academic medicine. New Directions for Institutional Research, USA, v. 27, n. 1, p. 33-43, 2000. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1002/ir.10503. Disponível em: https://eric.ed.gov/?id=EJ611508. Acesso em: 13 mar. 2021.
https://doi.org/10.1002/ir.10503...
, emphasizing the complexity of university work, conducted a study with medical school professors in the United States, considering their importance in improving quality of life and longevity. The authors described university members' activities and addressed the factors affecting their satisfaction. They found that university members educate and train doctors, conduct research, develop technologies and procedures, and care for patients, often those who are poor or seriously ill. The authors presented a comprehensive analytical model to illustrate university members' satisfaction factors, based on the Society of General Internal Medicine (SGIM) (GERRITY et al., 1997GERRITY, Martha. S. et al. Career satisfaction and clinician-educators: the rewards and challenges of teaching. Journal of General Internal Medicine, Science, v. 12, n. suppl. 2, p. S90, 1997. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1046/j.1525-1497.12.s2.13.x. Disponível em: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1046/j.1525-1497.12.s2.13.x. Acesso: 25 abr. 2021.
http://dx.doi.org/10.1046/j.1525-1497.12...
) and the Blackburn and Lawrence (1995) faculty work model.

Blackburn and Lawrence’s (1995)BLACKBURN, Robert T.; LAWRENCE, Janet H. Faculty at work: motivation, expectation, satisfaction. Baltimore: Johns Hopkins University Press, 1995. Disponível em: https://psycnet.apa.org/record/1996-97417-000. Acesso em: 10 ago. 2021.
https://psycnet.apa.org/record/1996-9741...
model was based on a study of university characteristics and their work. The data revealed that self-awareness and social awareness can affect behavior and productivity in such activities. Self-awareness includes self-efficacy, interest, effort, training, and personal ambitions. Social awareness is composed of institutional support and the efforts that university members believe in their institution desires. For the authors, the model seeks to illustrate how self-awareness and job satisfaction are influenced by organizational, professional, and personal factors, which are crucial for the productivity and retention of professionals in their activities. Thus, this professional’s profile involves perceiving their capacity to articulate the envisaged inseparability, including within the legal instruments of education.

Moro et al. (2013)MORO, Angélica Balconi; COSTA, Vânia Medianeira Flores; BALSAN, Laércio André Gassen; SCHETINGER, Maria Rosa Chitolina. Fatores motivacionais e higiênicos considerados relevantes na visão dos docentes e discentes de programas de pós-graduação de uma instituição pública federal. Sociais e Humanas, Santa Maria, v. 26, n. 3, p. 608-621, 2013. Disponível em: https://periodicos.ufsm.br/sociaisehumanas/article/view/5345. Acesso em: 10 fev. 2019.
https://periodicos.ufsm.br/sociaisehuman...
conducted a study to identify motivational (intrinsic) and hygiene (extrinsic) factors considered relevant from the viewpoint of students and professors in a public educational institution, where individuals' productivity is crucial for the development and survival of graduate programs. Regarding hygiene factors that prevent dissatisfaction, aspects related to work, such as salary and benefits, relationships, and working conditions were considered. In both groups, the results highlighted important motivational aspects, such as personal and professional growth and accomplishment, emphasizing enjoyment of their work. Faculty members considered hygiene factors, such as financial support and relationships with colleagues and students, important.

Alves, Maricato, and Martins (2015)ALVES, Itala Moreira; MARICATO, João de Melo; MARTINS, Dalton Lopes. Fatores que interferem no (não) credenciamento de pesquisadores em programas de pós-graduação: um estudo nas universidades públicas em Goiás. Em Questão, Porto Alegre, v. 21, n. 1, p. 150-171, 2015. DOI: https://doi.org/10.19132/1808-5245211.150-172. Disponível em: https://seer.ufrgs.br/index.php/EmQuestao/article/view/50145. Acesso em: 23 ago. 2021.
https://doi.org/10.19132/1808-5245211.15...
investigated the factors that lead researchers to affiliate (or not) with programs of this nature. They found that almost all surveyed researchers were interested in participating, but limitations arose due to organizational factors, although some favorable factors combined were related to work, organization, and personal factors.

These studies have revealed that involvement in graduate activities is almost always connected to contradictory scenarios. While this type of engagement provides access to resources (both objective and subjective), it also brings about an increased workload, contributing to the precariousness of work.

The scenario that emerged with the institutionalization of graduate education as a privileged location for research within educational institutions, coupled with the commercialization of relationships between public and private universities that respond to market interests, has resulted in the intensification of university work (GUIMARAES; CHAVES, 2015).

In this context, university staff members do not have a formal obligation to participate in graduate programs. Given the nature and complexity of their professional activity, making such a decision while considering productivity and the precariousness of work associated with engagement in these activities raises the question: what factors influence professionals' decisions to affiliate and what factors would lead them to disaffiliate from graduate programs? The goal was to identify the perception of doctoral employees in relation to their involvement in graduate programs and the factors that motivate them, both personal and organizational.

This research distinguishes itself from Moro et al. (2013)MORO, Angélica Balconi; COSTA, Vânia Medianeira Flores; BALSAN, Laércio André Gassen; SCHETINGER, Maria Rosa Chitolina. Fatores motivacionais e higiênicos considerados relevantes na visão dos docentes e discentes de programas de pós-graduação de uma instituição pública federal. Sociais e Humanas, Santa Maria, v. 26, n. 3, p. 608-621, 2013. Disponível em: https://periodicos.ufsm.br/sociaisehumanas/article/view/5345. Acesso em: 10 fev. 2019.
https://periodicos.ufsm.br/sociaisehuman...
, as it focuses on doctoral faculty members, unlike the cited study, which included university and students. Compared to the study by Alves, Maricato, and Martins (2015)ALVES, Itala Moreira; MARICATO, João de Melo; MARTINS, Dalton Lopes. Fatores que interferem no (não) credenciamento de pesquisadores em programas de pós-graduação: um estudo nas universidades públicas em Goiás. Em Questão, Porto Alegre, v. 21, n. 1, p. 150-171, 2015. DOI: https://doi.org/10.19132/1808-5245211.150-172. Disponível em: https://seer.ufrgs.br/index.php/EmQuestao/article/view/50145. Acesso em: 23 ago. 2021.
https://doi.org/10.19132/1808-5245211.15...
, this research incorporates motivational and organizational factors, expanding variables including some from Moro et al. (2013)MORO, Angélica Balconi; COSTA, Vânia Medianeira Flores; BALSAN, Laércio André Gassen; SCHETINGER, Maria Rosa Chitolina. Fatores motivacionais e higiênicos considerados relevantes na visão dos docentes e discentes de programas de pós-graduação de uma instituição pública federal. Sociais e Humanas, Santa Maria, v. 26, n. 3, p. 608-621, 2013. Disponível em: https://periodicos.ufsm.br/sociaisehumanas/article/view/5345. Acesso em: 10 fev. 2019.
https://periodicos.ufsm.br/sociaisehuman...
. Furthermore, it seeks to understand the personal factors that could influence the decision to disaffiliate from a program. This aspect is relevant given that the research was conducted before the pandemic and amidst a scenario of cuts in public education funding and financial crisis in the country. Thus, this study may shed light on factors related to the decision of university members to disaffiliate from programs.

The results of this study could contribute to higher education institutions developing policies to ensure the stability of their university members involved in graduate programs, thereby promoting the teaching, research, and extension dimensions.

2 Materials and methods

This descriptive study utilizes documents related to postgraduate regulations sourced from the websites of the PPGs (Graduate Programs) of the researched federal public institutions, research institutes such as the National Institute for Educational Studies and Research Anísio Teixeira (Inep), and government-affiliated foundations such as Capes. A questionnaire was also administered to active university members with doctoral degrees from an institution working in the GPs. To preserve the institution's and respondents' identities, non-identification was selected.

Research data were collected based on factors presented in the studies of Alves, Maricato, and Martins (2015)ALVES, Itala Moreira; MARICATO, João de Melo; MARTINS, Dalton Lopes. Fatores que interferem no (não) credenciamento de pesquisadores em programas de pós-graduação: um estudo nas universidades públicas em Goiás. Em Questão, Porto Alegre, v. 21, n. 1, p. 150-171, 2015. DOI: https://doi.org/10.19132/1808-5245211.150-172. Disponível em: https://seer.ufrgs.br/index.php/EmQuestao/article/view/50145. Acesso em: 23 ago. 2021.
https://doi.org/10.19132/1808-5245211.15...
and Moro et al. (2013)MORO, Angélica Balconi; COSTA, Vânia Medianeira Flores; BALSAN, Laércio André Gassen; SCHETINGER, Maria Rosa Chitolina. Fatores motivacionais e higiênicos considerados relevantes na visão dos docentes e discentes de programas de pós-graduação de uma instituição pública federal. Sociais e Humanas, Santa Maria, v. 26, n. 3, p. 608-621, 2013. Disponível em: https://periodicos.ufsm.br/sociaisehumanas/article/view/5345. Acesso em: 10 fev. 2019.
https://periodicos.ufsm.br/sociaisehuman...
, supplemented by others. The questionnaire was developed based on the indicated factors and pre-tested with three university members outside the surveyed university. After making the necessary adjustments, the questionnaire was hosted using Google Forms.

The Human Resources Office provided a list of 483 active employees at an institution holding doctoral degrees. Some university members were missing from the list and were sought from the GP websites of universities and publications, 502 institutional and personal email addresses. The instrument was sent four times from April 1st to May 7, 2019, to the identified email addresses, explaining the research, and inviting them to participate.

University members active in stricto sensu Graduate Programs received an email explaining the research with a questionnaire link. Upon opening the link, an Informed Consent Form was presented, allowing participants to declare their acceptance or refusal to participate in the research. The form then presented four questions, two of which were about the influence of motivational and organizational factors on university members’ intention to continue in the stricto sensu Graduate Program(s), and two about personal and organizational factors and the level of influence they would have on a potential disaffiliation from the stricto sensu Graduate Program(s) (Table 1).

Table 1
Factors influencing university retention or departure in graduate programs categorized

The questions provided reasons, and respondents indicated the level of influence according to a Likert-type scale: (1) no influence (NI), (2) little influence (LI), (3) neutral (N), (4) significant influence (SI), and (5) complete influence (CI).

University members' experience in Graduate Programs, both internal and external to the university, the participation category in the programs, and the location of the program(s) with which the university member is involved were also queried. Additional questions about profile, teaching experience, and teaching experience in graduate education prior to joining the university were included. The statistical software R (R CORE TEAM, 2020R CORE TEAM. R: a language and environment for statistical computing. Vienna: R Foundation for Statistical Computing, 2020. Disponível em: https://www.R-project.org. Acesso em: 5 ago. 2023.
https://www.R-project.org...
) was used for data analysis and graph generation.

Table 1 lists the categories of analysis (motivational, personal, and organizational factors) and the questions associated with them. The numerical notation at the end of each question refers to the source of the research instrument from which it was taken: In this case, the number (1) refers to Moro et al. (2013)MORO, Angélica Balconi; COSTA, Vânia Medianeira Flores; BALSAN, Laércio André Gassen; SCHETINGER, Maria Rosa Chitolina. Fatores motivacionais e higiênicos considerados relevantes na visão dos docentes e discentes de programas de pós-graduação de uma instituição pública federal. Sociais e Humanas, Santa Maria, v. 26, n. 3, p. 608-621, 2013. Disponível em: https://periodicos.ufsm.br/sociaisehumanas/article/view/5345. Acesso em: 10 fev. 2019.
https://periodicos.ufsm.br/sociaisehuman...
and (2) to Alves, Maricato, and Martins (2015)ALVES, Itala Moreira; MARICATO, João de Melo; MARTINS, Dalton Lopes. Fatores que interferem no (não) credenciamento de pesquisadores em programas de pós-graduação: um estudo nas universidades públicas em Goiás. Em Questão, Porto Alegre, v. 21, n. 1, p. 150-171, 2015. DOI: https://doi.org/10.19132/1808-5245211.150-172. Disponível em: https://seer.ufrgs.br/index.php/EmQuestao/article/view/50145. Acesso em: 23 ago. 2021.
https://doi.org/10.19132/1808-5245211.15...
.

Moro et al. (2013)MORO, Angélica Balconi; COSTA, Vânia Medianeira Flores; BALSAN, Laércio André Gassen; SCHETINGER, Maria Rosa Chitolina. Fatores motivacionais e higiênicos considerados relevantes na visão dos docentes e discentes de programas de pós-graduação de uma instituição pública federal. Sociais e Humanas, Santa Maria, v. 26, n. 3, p. 608-621, 2013. Disponível em: https://periodicos.ufsm.br/sociaisehumanas/article/view/5345. Acesso em: 10 fev. 2019.
https://periodicos.ufsm.br/sociaisehuman...
, following the discussions proposed by Herzberg, Bergamini, and Broxado, define motivational factors as those that occur within the intrinsic dimension, as they give meaning to actions and promote satisfaction. Alves, Maricato, and Martins (2015)ALVES, Itala Moreira; MARICATO, João de Melo; MARTINS, Dalton Lopes. Fatores que interferem no (não) credenciamento de pesquisadores em programas de pós-graduação: um estudo nas universidades públicas em Goiás. Em Questão, Porto Alegre, v. 21, n. 1, p. 150-171, 2015. DOI: https://doi.org/10.19132/1808-5245211.150-172. Disponível em: https://seer.ufrgs.br/index.php/EmQuestao/article/view/50145. Acesso em: 23 ago. 2021.
https://doi.org/10.19132/1808-5245211.15...
define organizational factors as the resources provided by the organization to perform the intrinsic work activities. In this sense, both the presence and absence of resources can positively or negatively affect employee motivation. Therefore, organizational factors should create a motivating and challenging environment conducive to individual satisfaction. Personal factors concern the relationship between the dynamics of everyday life and the demands of the world of work (ALVES; MARICATO; MARTINS, 2015ALVES, Itala Moreira; MARICATO, João de Melo; MARTINS, Dalton Lopes. Fatores que interferem no (não) credenciamento de pesquisadores em programas de pós-graduação: um estudo nas universidades públicas em Goiás. Em Questão, Porto Alegre, v. 21, n. 1, p. 150-171, 2015. DOI: https://doi.org/10.19132/1808-5245211.150-172. Disponível em: https://seer.ufrgs.br/index.php/EmQuestao/article/view/50145. Acesso em: 23 ago. 2021.
https://doi.org/10.19132/1808-5245211.15...
).

3 Results and discussion

At the institution surveyed, it was not possible to determine the exact number of faculty members with doctorates who are involved in stricto sensu graduate programs within or outside the institution. In a preliminary survey conducted by one of the college's vice rectorships, it was determined that approximately 50% were involved in graduate activities. Of the total 502 university members with doctorates, 113 (45%) of the respondents indicated that they were involved in graduate programs.

Among the respondents, men predominated at 61.9%, while women accounted for 38.1%. In terms of their role in the program(s), 77% of respondents were permanent, 12.4% were collaborators, and 10.6% held both permanent and collaborator positions. Regarding the programs, 79.6% stated that they participate in program(s) within the university, within the same faculty where they are based; 10.6% indicated their participation in program(s) within the university, but in a different faculty; 4.4% reported their involvement in program(s) outside the university, and 5.3% mentioned participating in program(s) both within and outside the university. These data reveal that faculty members have an organic connection with the programs, as 77% are permanent professors and 79.6% participate in internal programs, indicating their institutional commitment. In other words, engagement in postgraduate activities was integrated into daily work routines.

When asked about their intention to remain in the stricto sensu graduate program, 57.5% stated that they intended to stay until retirement, 41.6% intended to continue for some more time, and 0.9% indicated that they did not intend to stay. Therefore, although working conditions influenced by academic productivity (GUIMARÃES; CHAVES, 2015GUIMARÃES, André Rodrigues; CHAVES, Vera Lúcia Jacob. A intensificação do trabalho docente universitário: aceitações e resistências. Revista Brasileira de Política e Administração da Educação, Porto Alegre, v. 31, n. 3, p. 567-586, 2015. DOI: https://doi.org/10.21573/vol31n32015.59914. Disponível em: https://seer.ufrgs.br/index.php/rbpae/article/view/59914. Acesso em: 12 dez. 2021.
https://doi.org/10.21573/vol31n32015.599...
; SGUISSARDI; SILVA, 2009SGUISSARDI, Valdemar; SILVA JÚNIOR, João dos Reis. Trabalho intensificado nas federais: pós-graduação e produtivismo acadêmico. São Paulo: Xamã, 2009. Disponível em: https://revistas.ufg.br/interacao/article/view/15045/9330. Acesso em: 20 out. 2021.
https://revistas.ufg.br/interacao/articl...
; VOSGERAU; ORLANDO; MEYER, 2017VOSGERAU, Dilmeire Sant’Anna Ramos; ORLANDO, Evelyn de Almeida; MEYER, Patricia. Produtivismo acadêmico e suas repercussões no desenvolvimento profissional de professores universitários. Educação & Sociedade, São Paulo, v. 38, p. 231-247, 2017. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1590/ES0101-73302016163514. Disponível em: https://www.scielo.br/j/es/a/gtMMDrjZdhX8Q7yb5W5XqjN/abstract/?lang=pt. Acesso em: 12 ago. 2021.
https://doi.org/10.1590/ES0101-733020161...
) might be factors affecting faculty motivation, there is still a strong inclination towards program continuation.

Graph 1 presents the results concerning the level of influence of motivational factors on the decision to remain in stricto sensu graduate programs (s). The Likert scale followed the levels, and the following abbreviations were adopted: (1) no influence (NI), (2) little influence (LI), (3) neutral (N), (4) significant influence (SI), and (5) complete influence (CI).

Graph 1
Level of influence of motivational factors on the decision to remain in the program(s).

After analyzing the results from Graph 1, it can be observed that the most important motivational factor is "enjoy what I do," with 73% of the respondents indicating complete influence and 20% indicating significant influence. These findings confirm those of Moro et al. (2013)MORO, Angélica Balconi; COSTA, Vânia Medianeira Flores; BALSAN, Laércio André Gassen; SCHETINGER, Maria Rosa Chitolina. Fatores motivacionais e higiênicos considerados relevantes na visão dos docentes e discentes de programas de pós-graduação de uma instituição pública federal. Sociais e Humanas, Santa Maria, v. 26, n. 3, p. 608-621, 2013. Disponível em: https://periodicos.ufsm.br/sociaisehumanas/article/view/5345. Acesso em: 10 fev. 2019.
https://periodicos.ufsm.br/sociaisehuman...
, as the majority considered enjoying their work to be an important factor for motivation. Souto et al. (2017)SOUTO, Bruna Lecintia Carpes; BECK, Carmem Lúcia Colomé; TRINDADE, Liliane Ribeiro; SILVA, Rosângela Marion da; BACKES, Dirce Stein; BASTOS, Rodrigo Almeida. O trabalho docente em pós-graduação: prazer e sofrimento. Revista de Enfermagem da UFSM, Santa Maria: UFSM, v. 7, n. 1, p. 29-39, 2017. DOI: https://doi.org/10.5902/2179769222871. Disponível em: https://periodicos.ufsm.br/reufsm/article/view/22871. Acesso em: 20 out. 2021.
https://doi.org/10.5902/2179769222871...
obtained similar results in a qualitative study of the perspectives of graduate university members regarding feelings of pleasure and suffering in their work. They identified "pleasure" as arising from identification with teaching practices related to vocation. This aligns with discussion in this article as "enjoy what I do." Souto et al. (2017)SOUTO, Bruna Lecintia Carpes; BECK, Carmem Lúcia Colomé; TRINDADE, Liliane Ribeiro; SILVA, Rosângela Marion da; BACKES, Dirce Stein; BASTOS, Rodrigo Almeida. O trabalho docente em pós-graduação: prazer e sofrimento. Revista de Enfermagem da UFSM, Santa Maria: UFSM, v. 7, n. 1, p. 29-39, 2017. DOI: https://doi.org/10.5902/2179769222871. Disponível em: https://periodicos.ufsm.br/reufsm/article/view/22871. Acesso em: 20 out. 2021.
https://doi.org/10.5902/2179769222871...
also identified "recognition" as a contributing factor to work-related pleasure, noting that faculty members feel a sense of prestige in society. This result also supports the findings of this study, with 50% of the professionals identifying recognition outside the graduate program as a factor of significant or complete influence. Thus, while university members are organically linked to the program, projecting a positive image on those outside this activity remains relevant.

It was also noted that 22.7% of the respondents considered that all the motivational factors presented in Graph 1 had a moderate influence. It can also be observed that none of the listed factors were considered to have little or no influence on over 30% of the sample. These data help us understand why professors initially stated their intention to continue their involvement in graduate programs.

Graph 2 presents the results concerning the level of influence of organizational factors on the decision to remain in stricto sensu graduate program(s).

Graph 2
Level of Influence of Organizational Factors in the Decision to Remain in PG

In Graph 2, it is noteworthy that the relationship with students is the most influential factor for the respondents, with 39% stating total influence and 30% stating significant influence. These findings align with those of Davoglio, Spagnolo, and Santos (2017)DAVOGLIO, Tárcia Rita; SPAGNOLO, Carla; SANTOS, Bettina Steren dos. Motivação para a permanência na profissão: a percepção dos docentes universitários. Psicologia Escolar e Educacional, Porto Alegre, v. 21, p. 175-182, 2017. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1590/2175-3539201702121099. Disponível em: https://www.scielo.br/j/pee/a/vzb6M8PmGWZkK3N9cq8dKbh/. Acesso em: 19 abr. 2021.
https://doi.org/10.1590/2175-35392017021...
, who, when ranking the top ten factors motivating faculty members to stay in their careers, listed the student relationship as the first. Further emphasizing the value of the relationship between advisor and student in graduate programs, Modkovski and Ferraz (2012) concluded that when this relationship is positive, it contributes to students' self-efficacy and consequently enhances the quality of knowledge produced by the program. This reinforces the findings of this study regarding the significance of the student relationship.

Financial support, physical facilities, working hours, necessary materials, and required equipment are factors that the majority expressed as having little or no influence on the decision to remain, contrasting with the findings of Alves, Maricato, and Martins (2015)ALVES, Itala Moreira; MARICATO, João de Melo; MARTINS, Dalton Lopes. Fatores que interferem no (não) credenciamento de pesquisadores em programas de pós-graduação: um estudo nas universidades públicas em Goiás. Em Questão, Porto Alegre, v. 21, n. 1, p. 150-171, 2015. DOI: https://doi.org/10.19132/1808-5245211.150-172. Disponível em: https://seer.ufrgs.br/index.php/EmQuestao/article/view/50145. Acesso em: 23 ago. 2021.
https://doi.org/10.19132/1808-5245211.15...
. These data align with the study conducted by Colares et al. (2019)COLARES, Ana Carolina Vasconcelos; CASTRO, Mariana Camilla Coelho Silva; BARBOSA NETO, João Estevão; CUNHA, Jacqueline Veneroso Alves da. Motivação docente na pós-graduação stricto sensu: uma análise a partir da teoria da autodeterminação. Revista Contabilidade & Finanças, São Paulo, v. 30, n. 81, p. 381-395, 2019. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1590/1808-057x201909090. Disponível em: https://www.scielo.br/j/rcf/a/Ch5W7B6vcRsLS3tkFrzn76q/?lang=pt. Acesso em: 27 ago. 2021.
https://doi.org/10.1590/1808-057x2019090...
, which identified that university staff in accounting graduate programs value prestige more than financial benefits.

When asked about motivations for leaving the program, Graph 3 presents the results concerning the personal factors that would lead the participating faculty member to discontinue their involvement in the stricto sensu graduate program(s).

Graph 3
Level of Influence of Personal Factors that Would Lead to Ceasing Participation in the PG

Regarding the personal factors that contributed the most to disengagement from graduate programs (s), "low personal fulfillment" and "health-related difficulties" were identified. Personal fulfillment holds significant importance in the role of the university member, as it represents the form of reward they receive for their dedication. It is noteworthy that health can be related to work and not necessarily isolated personal factors. Forattini and Lucena (2015)FORATTINI, Cristina Damm; LUCENA, Carlos Alberto. Adoecimento e sofrimento docente na perspectiva da precarização do trabalho. Laplage em Revista, São Paulo, v. 1, n. 2, p. 32-47, 2015. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.24115/S2446-622020151219p.32-47. Disponível em: https://dialnet.unirioja.es/servlet/articulo?codigo=6193559. Acesso: 19 abr. 2021.
http://dx.doi.org/10.24115/S2446-6220201...
, Moura (2019)MOURA, Juliana da Silva; RIBEIRO, Júlia Cecília de Oliveira Alves; CASTRO NETA, Abília Ana de; NUNES, Claudio Pinto. A precarização do trabalho docente e o adoecimento mental no contexto neoliberal. Revista Profissão Docente, Minas Gerais, v. 19, n. 40, p. 1-17, 2019. DOI: https://doi.org/10.31496/rpd.v19i40.1242. Disponível em: https://revistasdigitais.uniube.br/index.php/rpd/article/view/1242. Acesso em: 20 jul. 2021.
https://doi.org/10.31496/rpd.v19i40.1242...
, and Penteado and Souza (2019)PENTEADO, Regina Zanella; SOUZA, Samuel de. Mal-estar, sofrimento e adoecimento do professor: de narrativas do trabalho e da cultura docente à docência como profissão. Saúde e Sociedade, São Paulo: USP, v. 28, n. 1, p. 135-153, 2019. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1590/S0104-12902019180304. Disponível em: https://pesquisa.bvsalud.org/portal/resource/pt/biblio-991666. Acesso em: 18 jun. 2021.
https://doi.org/10.1590/S0104-1290201918...
have discussed the illness of university members in relation to the precariousness of working conditions. Thus, health-related issues can be directly linked to work, rather than solely to the personal dimension, making this an area that could be further explored in future studies.

The factor with the most pronounced "no influence" response was "low professional recognition," contrasting with the research conducted by Colares et al. (2019)COLARES, Ana Carolina Vasconcelos; CASTRO, Mariana Camilla Coelho Silva; BARBOSA NETO, João Estevão; CUNHA, Jacqueline Veneroso Alves da. Motivação docente na pós-graduação stricto sensu: uma análise a partir da teoria da autodeterminação. Revista Contabilidade & Finanças, São Paulo, v. 30, n. 81, p. 381-395, 2019. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1590/1808-057x201909090. Disponível em: https://www.scielo.br/j/rcf/a/Ch5W7B6vcRsLS3tkFrzn76q/?lang=pt. Acesso em: 27 ago. 2021.
https://doi.org/10.1590/1808-057x2019090...
, who identified professional recognition as a relevant factor. Graph 4 presents the results concerning the level of influence of organizational factors on the decision to no longer participate in the GP.

Graph 4
Level of Influence of Organizational Factors that Would Lead to Ceasing Participation in the PG

The organizational factors that would influence the decision to disengage from the stricto sensu Graduate Program(s) are "problems related to personal relationships," "absence of incentive policies at the university," "absence of research lines of interest," and "current work overload," considered by over 50% of the respondents as having much or total influence. The factor "lack of additional compensation" was considered by 57% of the sample as having little or no influence. The workload burden for graduate teachers is highlighted by several authors discussing the issue of academic productivity (GUIMARÃES; CHAVES, 2015GUIMARÃES, André Rodrigues; CHAVES, Vera Lúcia Jacob. A intensificação do trabalho docente universitário: aceitações e resistências. Revista Brasileira de Política e Administração da Educação, Porto Alegre, v. 31, n. 3, p. 567-586, 2015. DOI: https://doi.org/10.21573/vol31n32015.59914. Disponível em: https://seer.ufrgs.br/index.php/rbpae/article/view/59914. Acesso em: 12 dez. 2021.
https://doi.org/10.21573/vol31n32015.599...
; SGUISSARDI; SILVA, 2009SGUISSARDI, Valdemar; SILVA JÚNIOR, João dos Reis. Trabalho intensificado nas federais: pós-graduação e produtivismo acadêmico. São Paulo: Xamã, 2009. Disponível em: https://revistas.ufg.br/interacao/article/view/15045/9330. Acesso em: 20 out. 2021.
https://revistas.ufg.br/interacao/articl...
; VOSGERAU; ORLANDO; MEYER, 2017VOSGERAU, Dilmeire Sant’Anna Ramos; ORLANDO, Evelyn de Almeida; MEYER, Patricia. Produtivismo acadêmico e suas repercussões no desenvolvimento profissional de professores universitários. Educação & Sociedade, São Paulo, v. 38, p. 231-247, 2017. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1590/ES0101-73302016163514. Disponível em: https://www.scielo.br/j/es/a/gtMMDrjZdhX8Q7yb5W5XqjN/abstract/?lang=pt. Acesso em: 12 ago. 2021.
https://doi.org/10.1590/ES0101-733020161...
), and it somehow encompasses the absence of policies and incentives. What appears to be an uncommonly indicated factor in other studies pertains to personal relationship problems.

The synthesis of the results in Tables 2 and 3. Table 2 presents the factors influencing the decision to remain in stricto sensu Graduate Program(s) with a level of influence greater than 50%.

Table 2
Factors that have the greatest influence on the decision to remain in the GP
Table 3
Factors that influence the decision to ceasing participation in the GP

On the other hand, Table 3 presents the factors that influence the decision to cease involvement in the graduate program with a level of influence greater than 50%.

Table 2 shows that the factors with the greatest influence on the decision to remain in the program are those related to personal satisfaction, that is, motivational aspects. This perspective aligns with the study by Pizzio and Klein (2015)PIZZIO, Alex; KLEIN, Karla. Qualidade de vida no trabalho e adoecimento no cotidiano de docentes do Ensino Superior. Educação & Sociedade, São Paulo, v. 36, n. 131, p. 493-513, 2015. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1590/ES0101-73302015124201. Disponível em: https://www.scielo.br/j/es/a/7BcbWwcjsvBHWhFvnNH7Ymx/?format=pdf⟨=pt. Acesso em: 20 out. 2021.
https://doi.org/10.1590/ES0101-733020151...
, which indicates that even under unfavorable structural conditions, when a teacher's life project aligned with their study, the quality of work life is higher. This result might explain the significant participation in these programs (NUNES; TORGA, 2020NUNES, Thiago Soares; TORGA, Eliana Marcia Martins Fittipaldi. Workplace bullying in postgraduate courses: the consequences experienced by teachers and students of a Brazilian state university. Education Policy Analysis Archives, USA, v. 28, n. 11, p. 1-23, 2020. DOI: https://doi.org/10.14507/epaa.28.4883. Disponível em: https://epaa.asu.edu/index.php/epaa/article/view/4883. Acesso em: 20 out. 2021.
https://doi.org/10.14507/epaa.28.4883...
). In this research, approximately 90% of the active teaching staff expressed their intention to stay in graduate courses, even under unfavorable working conditions, as indicated in Table 3.

These findings also indicate that addressing the precariousness of teaching work faces challenges to overcome. As pleasure derived from the activity outweighs working conditions, the pursuit of structural improvements may be hindered, resembling what La Boétie (2020)LA BOÉTIE, Étienne. Discurso da servidão voluntária. São Paulo: Montecristo, 2020. referred to as voluntary servitude. This topic should be further explored in future studies.

4 Final remarks

This study aimed to identify the perceptions of doctoral staff regarding their involvement in graduate programs, considering motivational, personal, and organizational factors. The literature discussed draws attention to the precariousness of work, which has significantly influenced educators’ health issues. Even though engagement in graduate education brings forth new work demands, externally monitored by governmental and funding institutions, and internally overseen by program coordinations and committees, for those who choose this activity, the data reveal the emotional dimensions driving their intention. In the motivational field, "liking what they do," and in the organizational context, "relationship with students," were the most highlighted factors by respondents.

Despite the majority stating their intention to remain in the program for some time or until retirement, when asked about the potential reasons for disengagement, once again, individual aspects came to the forefront. Respondents mentioned a lack of personal fulfillment in the activity, and personal or familial health issues. Structural concerns were indicated, although not as prominent as those related to the subjects' daily lives.

The results seem to indicate that structural conditions are not decisive factors for educators to remain in graduate activities. Instead, the connection that is established lies in the realm of emotions and career goals; both seek personal fulfillment. This strong bond between teaching motivation and personal and motivational factors explains why these professionals still choose to remain in this activity, even in adverse conditions that are potentially related to other aspects.

The findings of this study raise several questions.

  • - If research makes relevant contributions to societal and university development, why do educators contributing to this development receive differentiation in their careers?

  • - If educators' engagement in graduate education is driven more by personal fulfillment than financial gain, why do they still allow themselves to become ill due to workload?

The limitations of this study are related to its scope, as it was conducted in a relatively young institution. Therefore, graduate programs and their faculty composition are still in the process of consolidation, which may contribute to the understanding of the strong commitment observed.

Future research should analyze the relationship between work precariousness and the pleasure of teaching as well as explore potential aspects of voluntary servitude within this context. Another recommendation pertains to understanding recurring health issues among educational professionals and their connections to work precariousness.

Responsible for the English version:

Thais Cremon

E-mail: thaiscremon@ufgd.edu.br

  • 1
    “CAPES Data Collection is an application provided by CAPES for the evaluation of stricto sensu graduate programs in Brazil (PPGs). Every year, Institutions offering Master's and/or Doctoral degrees must complete this application in order for their courses to be evaluated. Its correct completion will influence a good evaluation.”.
  • Texto revisado por: Marco Aurélio Furno Oliveira E-mail: marcoaurelio@ifes.edu.br

Referências

Publication Dates

  • Publication in this collection
    13 Oct 2023
  • Date of issue
    2023

History

  • Received
    20 Jan 2022
  • Accepted
    07 Aug 2023
  • Reviewed
    29 Aug 2023
Publicação da Rede de Avaliação Institucional da Educação Superior (RAIES), da Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP) e da Universidade de Sorocaba (UNISO). Rodovia Raposo Tavares, km. 92,5, CEP 18023-000 Sorocaba - São Paulo, Fone: (55 15) 2101-7016 , Fax : (55 15) 2101-7112 - Sorocaba - SP - Brazil
E-mail: revistaavaliacao@uniso.br