INTRODUCTION
Introduction
Chapter one will cover the following sections: Background of the research, Problem statement, Research aims and objectives, Research questions, The significant of the study, Organization of chapters and Summary
The research background introduces the study's topic and its significance, allowing readers to grasp the rationale behind the investigation The problem statement outlines the current issues being addressed, supported by analysis and results (Mark, 2015) Formulating research aims and objectives is crucial, as it defines the study's scope and direction, ultimately seeking to answer complex questions (Robert & Katie, 2017; John, 2018) As research questions evolve, so do the objectives and methods employed The findings of the research objectives provide clarity on the main research question, while a proposed conceptual framework establishes hypotheses involving independent, intermediate, and dependent variables (Robert, 2017) The significance of the study is twofold, emphasizing its relevance for future research and practical applications, thus benefiting the community and informing other scholars in leadership and higher education The introduction to research methods outlines the processes and tools for data collection and analysis, ensuring transparency and reliability in the study The research organization briefly summarizes the content of each chapter, designed to meet the research objectives in a clear and accessible manner Finally, the summary recaps chapter one and transitions to chapter two.
Background of the Research
Leadership style plays a crucial role in an organization's success, as it embodies the leader's vision, influences staff dynamics, and shapes strategic direction (Paul & Doug, 2018) An effective leadership style not only motivates employees to reach their goals but also encourages them to push beyond their limits for enhanced organizational outcomes Furthermore, it fosters greater employee satisfaction, engagement, and loyalty to the organization (Fil, 2019).
Human resources are recognized as a crucial asset for both businesses and society, with organizations increasingly seeking not only high-quality talent but also ways to enhance individual employee performance (David, 2018) Individual performance plays a vital role in establishing a competitive advantage for organizations, making it essential for leaders to find effective strategies to motivate their employees to improve performance.
Leaders in higher education face significant challenges, yet their ability to foster connections among their team is crucial By recognizing the potential of their followers and aligning with their aspirations, leaders can create a positive feedback loop that drives motivation and productivity (Yulk, 2013) This heightened engagement not only enhances individual contributions but also cultivates a culture of innovation rooted in shared values and a unified vision Ultimately, this collaborative environment enables the team to achieve a level of synergy where the collective output surpasses the sum of individual efforts (Northouse).
This study examines the impact of the Transformational Leadership model on enhancing academic research within higher education institutions in Vietnam It will analyze the concept of Transformational Leadership to elucidate its effects on individual performance, as outlined by Bass and Riggio.
This study will explore the role of employee engagement as a moderating variable in the relationship between transformational leadership and individual performance To achieve this, a case study approach will be employed, allowing for in-depth investigation and analysis Data will be collected to address and clarify the research questions posed in this investigation.
Problem Statement
The landscape of higher education in Vietnam is undergoing significant transformation, presenting university leaders with formidable challenges such as globalization, the 4.0 revolution, fierce competition for quality human resources, and reduced government funding due to rising public and external debt (Nguyen Van Phuc, 2018) To navigate these pressures, effective leadership is essential, as it fosters innovation and progress in higher education and academic research A key role of effective leaders is to inspire and motivate employees to enhance their productivity in academic research (Joshua & Jamie, 2015).
According to Ministry of Education and Training (2018), Vietnam now has nearly
Despite having 300 universities and colleges, none are ranked among the top 500 globally or the top 350 in Asia This shortfall is attributed to a lack of scientific research output and published journal articles that meet international standards This study highlights the crucial role of academic research in determining a university's quality rating.
To achieve academic research of international standards, the performance of individuals in higher education institutions is essential Consequently, leadership plays a crucial role in influencing individual performance through specific leadership characteristics.
Leadership styles have been categorized based on various principles, with transformational and transactional leadership being the most recognized (Bass, 1990) Among these, transformational leadership has gained prominence as a highly effective approach, particularly in the education sector, where it has the potential to enhance traditional management practices and boost team effectiveness (Klaus, 2015).
Transformational leadership is characterized by a leader's ability to inspire and implement positive changes among their followers, distinguishing it from other leadership styles Unlike transactional leadership, which relies on rewards and punishments based on performance outcomes, transformational leaders leverage their influence to foster growth and development in their subordinates (Michael, 2013).
This research explores transformational leadership styles and their impact on effective leadership behaviors in higher education The study involves a systematic literature review focusing on leadership styles that enhance employee engagement and individual performance within the context of higher education Additionally, it includes surveys conducted with scholars experienced in leadership research, providing valuable insights into the dynamics of leadership in academic settings.
Research Aims and Objectives
Establishing clear objectives and aims is crucial in thesis research, as they directly address the research question Research objectives are typically segmented into distinct parts for focused analysis Furthermore, these objectives outline the specific areas of study and detail the necessary steps to achieve the desired outcomes, ensuring a structured approach to the research goal.
In this study, the author identified One Aims and Five Objectives:
Aims: Study the impact of transformational leadership that affects the individual performance in Vietnam’s higher education
- Demonstrate that the Idealized Influence Attribution (IA) of transformational leadership styles effects to individual performance
- Desmontrate that the Idealized Influence Behavior (IB) of transformational leadership styles positively related to individual performance
- Demonstrate that the Individualized Consideration (IC) of transformational leadership styles helps employees develop their strengths to change individual performance
- Demonstrate that the Inspirational Motivation (IM) of transformational leadership styles creates motivation to individual performance
- Demonstrate that the Intellectual Stimulation (IS) of transformational leadership styles provides oppoirtunities for employees to increase individual performance.
Research Questions
A research question serves as the fundamental core of any research project or document review (Bill & Mark, 2017) It directs the research process by identifying methods and guiding all stages of learning, analysis, and reporting Establishing a clear research question is crucial, as it defines the specific phenomenon to be studied Consequently, the primary research question for this study will be:
"How can the Transformational Leadership to Promoting academic research in Vietnam’s higher education?"
After Research question part, Five Research Questions will be established:
- What is Idealized Influence Attribution (IA) feature in transformational leadership styles that affects to individual performance?
- What is Idealized Influence Behavior (IB) of transformational leadership styles positively related to individual performance?
- What is Individualized Consideration (IC) feature in transformational leadership styles helps employees develop their strengths to change individual performance?
- What is Inspirational Motivation (IM) feature in transformational leadership styles creates motivation to individual performance?
- What is Intellectual Stimulation (IS) feature in transformational leadership styles provides opportunities for employees to increase individual performance?
The significance of the Research
This study highlights the crucial leadership traits that inspire employees to enhance academic research performance It also identifies significant gaps in both academic studies and practical applications that require attention Furthermore, research on international collaboration is essential for improving a university's standing in global rankings, bolstering its reputation, and attracting high-quality talent from esteemed organizations (Charles, 2015).
Research and analysis methods are essential for enhancing awareness of leadership's role in organizations, particularly in higher education (Manuella, 2018) This study highlights approaches that offer a comprehensive overview aimed at boosting productivity and fostering participation in academic research at universities It emphasizes the importance of effective leadership practices in improving the quality of academic research and individual performance.
This study aims to provide insights into the practical implications of renewable research by utilizing an extended intervention period and a larger sample size in future investigations.
Organization of Chapters
Thesis structure is divided into five chapters:
Chapter one provides a comprehensive overview of the research topics, detailing the problem statements and outlining the aims and objectives of the study It formulates key research questions and highlights the significance of the study within its field Additionally, this chapter organizes the subsequent chapters and concludes with a summary, ensuring a clear framework for understanding the research.
Chapter two explores the literature on leadership in higher education, focusing on definitions and characteristics of transformational leadership and its impact on institutions It provides historical context for higher education in Vietnam and emphasizes the significance of academic research in university education Additionally, the chapter introduces concepts such as employee engagement and individual performance, examining their relationship with transformational leadership Finally, it presents the research hypotheses and framework that guide the study.
Chapter three outlines the study's methodology, detailing the study's design, sample size, data collection methods, and analysis techniques It also includes a survey and evaluation section, along with an overview of the Multifactor Leadership Questionnaire and the key variables involved in the research.
The article outlines the key concepts and variables of the study, detailing the hypotheses and sample information It discusses the research instrument utilized, along with the methodology for data collection, sample size determination, and the development of scales and research models.
- Chapter four discusses the results of quantitative data, analyzes research results using SPSS software to process collected data Describe the results obtained through data analysis
- Chapter five includes the summary, interpretation of findings, conclusions and recommendations of this study.
Summary
Chapter one introduces the study, outlining its objectives and structure Chapter two delves into scholarly literature to explore the concepts of transformational leadership and its effects on various aspects.
LITERATURE REVIEW
Introduction
This section of the project aims to systematically analyze studies on leadership within higher education It will define independent, moderator, and dependent variables while also providing an overview of the higher education landscape in Vietnam Additionally, the chapter will highlight the significance and popularity of transformational leadership styles in this context.
Vietnam’s Higher Education Background
For over 40 years, Vietnam has prioritized the development of education, particularly in higher education Following the country's liberation in 1975, the government recognized the importance of education in supplying skilled labor needed for modernization and economic reconstruction, ultimately contributing to the nation's economic growth and prosperity.
As Vietnam navigates the challenges of the Industrial Revolution 4.0, the nation must address the significant gap in its higher education system, which lags behind in adopting advanced technologies.
Background of the Industrial Revolution 4.0
The Industrial Revolution 4.0 is characterized by unprecedented technological advancements that have rapidly transformed industries worldwide Key innovations in artificial intelligence, robotics, the Internet of Things (IoT), self-driving vehicles, biotechnology, nanotechnology, 3D printing, material science, and quantum computing are driving this exponential growth As these breakthroughs continue to emerge, their profound impact is felt across various sectors, reshaping the global landscape at an extraordinary pace.
The Industrial Revolution 4.0 significantly enhances our quality of life through innovative products and services; however, it poses a critical challenge by increasing inequality as automation replaces labor-intensive jobs Additionally, there is a pressing need to create higher-skilled job opportunities for workers displaced by these automated technologies in various daily tasks.
The term "industrial revolution" signifies a profound transformation that impacts both the economy and society as a whole Vietnam is rapidly transitioning from a "golden population" demographic to an aging population The Industrial Revolution 4.0 presents a valuable opportunity to enhance labor productivity through the application of scientific and technical advancements, effectively leveraging the existing "golden population" structure Education and training will be crucial in addressing this significant challenge.
The impact of the Industrial Revolution 4.0 on education
To prepare for the Industrial Revolution 4.0, it is essential to enhance human capital by adapting to the evolving knowledge and skill demands of the modern workforce This challenge necessitates a transformation in education and training systems to equip individuals with the capabilities required for national development Many countries are shifting from traditional education models to approaches that foster innovation and creativity, ensuring that learners are well-prepared to meet the demands of the Industrial Revolution 4.0.
With the flow of new learning models and the development of science and technology, the traditional education methods will certainly be subject to many challenges
One of the key advantages of modern education is the ability to differentiate learning for each student, recognizing their unique needs and abilities Technological advancements enable educators to create personalized learning pathways tailored to individual requirements Adaptive educational software is now widely used, allowing students to learn at their own pace and according to their specific capacities In many countries, this innovative software has rapidly taken over the traditional role of classroom textbooks, transforming the educational landscape.
Access to information has never been easier, prompting educators to identify the essential knowledge and skills that learners will need for the future Unlike traditional education models that emphasized imparting knowledge, today's educators prioritize teaching students how to learn independently This approach fosters critical thinking and equips students to assess complex situations and problems, ultimately enhancing their problem-solving abilities.
The impact of development technology on teachers' roles in the classroom is significant, as technology management systems provide valuable data to help educators monitor student progress and offer timely feedback on challenges faced by learners Despite the advancements in technology, it cannot replace the essential role of teachers or reduce them to mere automatons Therefore, the challenge for educators and institutions lies in effectively leveraging technology to enhance creativity and freedom in the learning process.
The recent changes highlight the potential future of education, where computers serve as personalized support tools in classrooms, offering diverse learning pathways This evolution empowers teachers and parents to gain deeper insights into students' learning processes Additionally, classrooms are increasingly organized into small groups, allowing students with similar skills and qualifications to collaborate effectively.
Advancements in technology are significantly aiding faculty in scientific and academic research, yet they cannot fully replace the essential role of creativity in the research process Consequently, implementing supportive policies to foster academic and scientific research is crucial within universities.
Challenges and opportunities for Vietnamese education
Vietnamese education possesses significant advantages that position it well to seize the development opportunities presented by the Industrial Revolution 4.0.
The Party and the State are proactive in addressing future educational challenges, as highlighted by the 8th Conference of the 11th Party Central Committee on November 4, 2013, which approved Resolution No 29-NQ/TW aimed at comprehensive educational reform This resolution emphasizes a shift from traditional knowledge-based education to a focus on the holistic development of learners' capabilities and qualities, integrating practical learning with family and social education Additionally, on May 4, 2017, the Prime Minister's Directive No 16/CT-TTg called for significant changes in educational policies, content, and methods to enhance the capacity for adapting to the Fourth Industrial Revolution, ensuring the development of human resources equipped to embrace new production technologies.
In 2017, the Ministry of Education and Training issued Official Letter No 1891/BGDĐT-GDĐH to higher education institutions, emphasizing the need to train human resources that can adapt to the Fourth Industrial Revolution Starting in 2018, this initiative became a fundamental criterion for evaluating and shaping the development direction of the entire education sector.
One of the key advantages of educational development in Vietnam is the strong societal emphasis on learning The country fosters a positive learning environment characterized by discipline and support, which helps students cultivate a constructive attitude towards education Additionally, active participation and encouragement from parents and students contribute significantly to building a thriving learning community.
Leadership – A stimulate for continuous researching
Leadership roles are complex and vary based on individual perceptions and experiences According to Northouse (2015), the definition of global leadership lacks consistency due to differing interpretations by various scholars Jon Gordon (2017) emphasizes that leadership is a dynamic process involving interaction between leaders and followers within specific situations or environments.
For four decades, Burns (1978) highlighted that "Leadership is one of the least understood observations on earth." Despite numerous studies identifying leadership as a distinct phenomenon, consensus on what constitutes a successful leader in higher education remains elusive (Donele, 2016) Leadership often pertains to the social influence exerted by capable individuals, defined as those who guide, inspire, or support others on their journeys (Taylor, Peplau, and Sears, 2006) Burns (1990) further describes leadership as a process driven by motivated individuals and various resources within a competitive and conflictual context, involving both leaders and followers (Yulk, 2013).
Motivation, inspiration, and personal development are essential for achieving goals (Michael, 2015) Leadership can be categorized based on various characteristics, such as personality traits, leadership behaviors, interaction models, and the influence leaders have on followers and organizational culture (Yukl, 2013; Bass, 1990) Key differences in leadership definitions arise from variations in influencers, the motivations behind their influence, and the mechanisms through which influence is exerted (John, 2018).
Leadership is defined as an interactive process where leaders influence their followers and adapt their behavior based on the followers' responses (Burns, 1978) According to Yukl (2013), it involves guiding others to comprehend and align on necessary actions while facilitating both individual and collective efforts to achieve shared goals This multifaceted approach highlights the importance of relationship dynamics in effective leadership.
Leadership is defined as the dynamic interaction among group members engaged in shaping a situation, as described by (1990) According to Bass (1990), it is a process that influences the goals and strategies of an organization, impacting members' commitment to implementing these strategies and achieving objectives, while also affecting group cohesion and organizational culture.
W Warner (2017) provides a framework of activities that leaders can self-assess Leadership involves having followers and demanding a good balance between the leader and the follower It is an organizational process involving the successful processing of complex tasks and changes (Yulk, 2015) Leadership can be defined as the process of interaction between leaders and subordinates with the goal of influencing subordinates' behavior to achieve a firm goal (John, 2018) Leadership is one of the most researched topics and has been evaluated at a number of different levels Over the past millennium, different theorists have emerged (Burns, 2018)
The educational landscape is evolving rapidly, highlighting the growing significance of effective leadership (Carl et al., 2018) Leaders play a crucial role as initiators, implementers, and evaluators within this dynamic environment (Issa, 2014) A major challenge for leaders is not only to navigate change but also to enhance the capabilities of their followers (Jean, 2018) To strengthen organizational leadership, it is essential to identify individuals who can emerge as successful leaders at all levels (Monica, 2017) Leadership is inherently collaborative, relying on the synergy between the leadership team and their followers It involves the interaction between leaders and subordinates aimed at influencing behaviors to achieve organizational objectives (Yukl).
Effective leadership hinges on the ability to inspire followers to collaborate towards a common vision Successful leaders are aware of their own values and recognize the importance of their followers' values, enabling them to guide behavior effectively When organizations share core values, they function cohesively as a unified entity This alignment fosters cooperation between leaders and followers, which is essential for achieving and sustaining high levels of efficiency.
In order to foster effective collaboration, leaders must actively create a positive environment It is essential for leaders to delegate specific tasks to each team member, ensuring that everyone contributes to the overall success of the project.
Effective leadership significantly influences employee attitudes and behaviors, as highlighted by Hugh et al (2017) Leadership style, defined by James (2017), reflects how leaders engage with their teams, emphasizing the importance of followers' perceptions of their leaders' effectiveness (Peter, 2017) Burns (2018) distinguishes between transformational and transactional leaders in education, describing leadership as a means to achieve collective goals aligned with the values of both leaders and followers The confidence followers have in their leaders is closely tied to how leaders adapt their beliefs, fostering respect, commitment, and admiration Thus, ongoing evaluation of followers' perspectives is crucial for successful leadership (Burns, 2018) Effective leaders prioritize their followers' core values, guiding them towards shared objectives (Northouse, 2015) and creating a cohesive organization where employees collaborate as a unified entity (John, 2018) Ultimately, understanding the impact of individual values, particularly those of leaders and followers, is essential for assessing leadership success.
Leadership encompasses various concepts, but a common thread among them is the ability to influence, facilitate, and inspire followers Effective leaders encourage voluntary participation from their team members to achieve the goals and mission of the organization, as highlighted by Dr Sackeena.
In 2016, it was highlighted that the conventional industry perspective on leadership fails to address the educational needs and roles of workers in sectors beyond educational institutions Consequently, this study focuses on examining leadership specifically within the realm of higher education, aligning with this broader viewpoint.
Transformational leadership, conceptualized by James MacGregor Burns in 1978, emphasizes the potential within followers, aiming to meet their higher needs and inspire them According to Bass (2008), this leadership style encourages followers to exceed expectations and believe in their capabilities Since its inception, the characteristics of transformational leadership have evolved in both theory and measurement While it originates from charismatic leadership, Bass (1985) asserts that charisma is just one aspect of transformational leadership He identifies four key characteristics: idealized influence, individualized consideration, inspirational motivation, and intellectual stimulation, collectively enhancing a leader's ability to attract and motivate followers.
Numerous leadership theories and tools have been validated by researchers, with a significant focus on the positive impacts of transformational leadership since the late 1980s (Avolio, 2018) The Multidisciplinary Leadership Questionnaire (MLQ) is the primary tool for assessing this leadership style (Avolio & Bass, 2004) and has been widely utilized across various sectors, including business, education, government, and health (Bass & Avolio, 1999; Berson et al., 2001) Developed over 30 years ago (Bass, 1985), MLQ has undergone several revisions and is now available in multiple languages, being implemented in over 30 countries (Avolio & Bass, 2004) The MLQ is grounded in the Full-Range Leadership Theory (FRLT), which was introduced by Avolio and Bass (1991) and is based on foundational work by earlier scholars (Bass, 1985; Burns, 1978) FRLT encompasses three distinct leadership styles: transformational, transactional, and laissez-faire.
In addition, FRLT combines nine leadership elements including five transformation leadership elements, three transaction leadership elements and a laissez-faire leadership element (Avolio & Bass, 2004)
Table 2.2 The Full-range of Leadership Model Four I’s Transformational Leadership defined & expanded to the Five I’
The Full – range of Leadership Model Four I’s of Transformational Leadership defined & expanded to the Five I’s
- The leader who serves as a role model thus increasing emotional engagement of followers who desire emulating the leader
- These leaders are exemplars of the values, vision, and goals they communicate
- Idealized influence can further be divided into both
Attributes [II (A)] and Behaviors [II (B)] for measurement, and thus this work refers to the five I’s of transformational leadership rather than the four I’s commonly referenced
- The leader communicates expectations clearly and ensures work is both meaningful and challenging
- The leader fosters innovative, creative strategies to solve difficult problems and to achieve aspirational goals
- Followers are encouraged to examine and question old assumptions for viability
Derungs, 2011; Moe et al., 2007; Shuck & Herd, 2012
A strong leader fosters a supportive atmosphere by focusing on individual needs and nurturing strengths, while also building personal relationships and mentoring team members This approach enhances team cohesion and spirit, as recognizing and valuing individual contributions significantly boosts overall motivation and engagement within the team.
Chipunza & Gwarinda, 2010; Derungs, 2011; Diáz- Sáenz, 2011
Academic Research – Improving the Individual Performance in
University research aims to generate new knowledge, primarily grounded in theory However, this theoretical focus often results in impractical applications and a lack of immediate, useful products Consequently, the knowledge and theories developed require significant time to demonstrate their broader societal impact Additionally, university research may not effectively address pressing social issues or current challenges.
Researchers aim to uncover the truth, and while traditional university research has been viewed as a scholarly discourse, recent years have seen a shift in public perception towards the practicality of research Knowledge transfer has become a priority for universities, which are now more focused on meeting societal expectations Consequently, researchers are placing greater emphasis on the real-world applications of their work, prioritizing effectiveness over purely academic considerations.
2.4.1 The concept of Academic Research
The scientific analysis of a specific type of text involves integrating knowledge with personal insights derived from primary or secondary literature This research aims to direct investigations and elucidate particular issues, as highlighted by Ary (2018).
A scientific study must fulfill two essential criteria: it should establish a clear research goal and select the appropriate research method to address all research questions (Stephen, 2018) According to Fred & Maria (2018), the core of an academic paper is driven by a thesis aimed at proving or deriving new conclusions about the chosen topic Unlike other academic texts, academic research reports provide detailed explanations based on themed research from diverse sources rather than abstract concepts (Ary, 2018) In this context, academic research encompasses research and development (R&D) conducted within higher education institutions, such as universities and polytechnics, as well as affiliated research centers The significant rise in academic research is evidenced by the increasing number of higher education researchers and the growing output of scientific papers.
Academic research plays a crucial role in society, providing significant social benefits through quality and ethical studies However, there is a troubling trend toward the commercialization of research, where projects are increasingly driven by economic criteria This shift undermines academic freedom and restricts the breadth of research topics, discouraging researchers from pursuing socially beneficial projects Consequently, many are compelled to accept private sector-funded research to evaluate their performance, limiting their ability to contribute to the greater good.
Independence is a crucial aspect of academic research, distinguishing university researchers from their industry counterparts who often operate under a top-down management system In the university setting, researchers enjoy the freedom to choose their research topics and are not subjected to oversight from stakeholders regarding their findings or data collection.
Academic researchers enjoy the autonomy of working independently without managerial oversight and are not required to engage with clients, as there are no customers in the academic realm Their findings are grounded in robust data, ensuring a high level of objectivity and integrity within the university setting.
In university studies, two main types of academic papers are prevalent: theoretical and analytical studies Theoretical research aims to persuade, requiring the writer to present a clear thesis statement reflecting their stance on a controversial issue, which invites discussion and potential counterarguments (Ary, 2018) Conversely, analytical papers focus on a specific question that necessitates further investigation without the need for the author to maintain a predetermined position throughout the research process The primary goal of analysis is not to convince the audience of the author's viewpoint but to emphasize the significance of primary and secondary sources in research and to provide a comprehensive understanding of the topic (Fred & Maria, 2018).
2.4.3 The importance of Academic Research
Research done by the university sometimes seems to separate from the student's educational experience However, research at university can have a profound impact on students' lives
Universities frequently highlight their research achievements, particularly if they hold a high regional ranking or engage in prestigious projects As a result, current and past research initiatives are prominently featured on the homepage of their websites.
In today's globalized world, research plays a crucial role in the sustainability and development of academic institutions, driving knowledge-based growth through innovation The foundation of research lies in the pursuit of knowledge, which directly enhances the quality of teaching and learning, ultimately benefiting students, society, and the nation By promoting research initiatives in Vietnam, the country can elevate its knowledge and presence on the international stage.
Vietnam's education system is hindered by various limitations, particularly in the realm of quality research conducted by professors Research studies depict a concerning landscape regarding both the quality and quantity of academic output Many universities lack mandatory research objectives for their lecturers and suffer from insufficient infrastructure and resources to support high-quality research Contributing factors include a discouraging academic environment, inadequate libraries and laboratories, limited funding, and a faculty crisis, all of which impede the advancement of research at Vietnamese universities.
Academic and scientific research significantly enhances student learning, primarily through the knowledge presented in textbooks Much of this information, including models, processes, and theories, originates from faculty research at universities While some insights stem from practitioners, many valuable studies are often overlooked as they do not align with the tenure requirements of professors Research conducted for academic purposes may focus on niche topics that, while seemingly irrelevant outside the university, can lead to transformative changes in fields such as education, business, and the arts Furthermore, teaching professors bring a unique perspective, bridging the gap between academic findings and industry applications, thereby enriching the educational experience for their students.
Academic research may take years to be included in textbooks, yet it is actively applied in classrooms, bridging the gap between theory and practice This real-time application helps students understand how the theories and models they study have evolved and are utilized in contemporary settings By witnessing the practical use of textbook materials, students can engage with the content in a dynamic way that goes beyond traditional classroom exercises, tests, and discussions, making their learning experience more impactful and relevant.
Being an active researcher allows professors to engage with the latest tools and technologies, such as advanced tablets and evolving software With rapid advancements in software capabilities and interfaces, it is essential for educators to stay updated to compete with younger researchers and publish in reputable journals This ongoing participation not only enhances their knowledge but also enables them to bring practical experience into the classroom, enriching the learning experience for their students.
Collaborating with industry enhances student learning beyond traditional academic research Professors engaged in consulting or research partnerships with industry bring valuable insights, as industry research often prioritizes return on investment over academic standards By exposing students to this practical research process, they gain a broader perspective that transcends textbook theories and scholarly articles Moreover, integrating industrial research into class projects immerses students in real-world environments and expectations, further enriching their educational experience.
Employee Engagement – The moderator of relationship between
Transformational Leadership and Individual Performance
In this study, Employee Engagement serves as a moderating variable that influences the relationship between Transformational Leadership (TL) and Individual Performance (IP) Specifically, it alters the intensity or direction of the effect that TL has on IP, highlighting the significance of Employee Engagement in shaping this dynamic.
2.5.1 The concept of Employee Engagement
Employee engagement, a concept that has gained prominence over the last two decades, lacks a single definition, similar to other psychological constructs (Soleman, 2016; Judyth & Lindie, 2018) As organizations increasingly focus on personnel management, research on workplace cohesion has become vital, emphasizing optimal human and operational dynamics rather than weaknesses (Ray, 2015) While there is consensus among researchers about the structure of work cohesion, differing perspectives on its definition persist (Jeanine, 2016) Most scholars agree that employee engagement is rooted in earlier concepts such as employee commitment, job satisfaction, and organizational citizenship behavior, yet it encompasses a broader scope and can be described in various ways (Tim, 2018).
Participation, as defined by Karen (2017), encompasses three key dimensions: vitality, dedication, and absorption (Patricia et al., 2016) Vitality signifies high energy levels and mental recovery in the workplace, reflecting a strong resolve to tackle challenges and a commitment to effort This dimension includes feelings of enthusiasm, inspiration, pride, and the ability to embrace challenges Absorption, on the other hand, is characterized by complete concentration and a joyful engagement in one’s work (Tim, 2018).
Employee engagement, a concept initially developed by William Kahn in the early 1990s, has its roots in Erving Goffman's role theory from 1961 Goffman illustrated the connection between an employee's role and their level of engagement, highlighting the importance of understanding these dynamics in the workplace.
(1990) defines participation as connecting organizational employees with their individual roles Both Goffman (1961) and Kahn (1990) emphasize much of the role of organization
In any organization, employees differ greatly in their level of participation in the job and the level of intensity and attention they give in their work According to
According to Dr David (2017), the performance of organizations and community members is enhanced when they actively engage in their roles James (2018) emphasizes that individuals exhibit varying approaches to defining their roles, highlighting that participation is inherently spontaneous and cannot be forced Unwanted roles may still lead to participation, as noted by James (2018) Furthermore, Lonnie (2019) points out that while individuals may engage in one role, they might not fulfill their complementary roles True employee participation occurs when individuals consistently commit to all their roles and exert discretionary efforts to enhance their performance.
Employee engagement reflects the commitment of individuals within an organization, encompassing both emotional and intellectual investment in achieving the company's mission and vision (Louis, 2019) Additionally, engagement can have both positive and negative implications for employees' relationships with their organization, work, and colleagues (Cliff, 2015).
However, according to most major research projects, the employee engagement is a positive attitude of the employees towards the organization and its value (David,
2015) Workers who are focused on work are out and show their willingness to take physical, cognitive and emotional resources for this task (Emma & Karen,
According to David (2015), an individual participant is characterized by their access to work-related tasks and a strong sense of self-investment, energy, and passion, which ultimately leads to increased productivity and effectiveness in their role.
Employee engagement is also considered a potential predictor in some studies of
Transformational leadership fosters a strong sense of cohesion among employees, leading to enhanced constructive and responsible workplace behavior As a result, individual performance remains positively impacted.
2.5.2 The relationship between Transformational Leadership and Individual
This article explores the interconnections between transformational leadership, employee engagement, and individual performance It begins by defining transformational leadership and identifies key factors that impact individual performance, drawing insights from established academic research (Charles, 2018).
Employee engagement is closely linked to the expectation theory of motivation, which emphasizes the importance of aligning performance outcomes with rewards valued by employees (Scott, 2017) Effective engagement is fostered through clear communication between leaders and team members, as well as through employee empowerment and skill development Motivation serves as a crucial factor in how transformational leadership influences individual performance Transformational leaders should incorporate these motivational elements into their leadership style, as research indicates that their impact on individual performance is indirect Future studies may validate these findings empirically, providing transformational leaders with insights into how their behaviors shape the performance of their followers (Chris, 2017).
Transformational leadership has also been found to be positively related to the performance of subordinate innovation in many countries and areas (Yulk, 2015)
Research indicates that fostering creative behavior at both individual and group levels is significantly influenced by specific leadership characteristics Key traits such as individual consideration, intellectual stimulation, and inspirational motivation play a crucial role in enhancing creativity, as supported by previous studies (Northouse, 2015; Burns).
According to Gary (2017), intellectual stimulation and support significantly boost individual creativity By encouraging individuals to ask questions and seek assistance, innovation at the personal level is fostered This is further enhanced by setting challenging work targets, providing constructive feedback, and offering advanced training opportunities.
Transformational leadership enhances job satisfaction and performance by fostering expert shared leadership and cultivating strong relationships with subordinates This leadership style is particularly vital for driving innovative activities Meta-analysis results indicate that transformational leadership not only improves the relationships among team members but also boosts creative behavior, along with other positive outcomes.
Leaders play a crucial role in fostering innovation by actively supporting their team's values and understanding their behaviors and motivations (Esin, 2016) Encouraging team members to engage in external communication can significantly enhance creativity (Yulk, 2015) Additionally, leaders can directly support staff innovation by recognizing individual creative tendencies and assigning rewarding tasks that align with those strengths (Jim, 2015).
Leadership values affect the behavior and performance of the leader and ultimately the organizational performance (Kirk, 2016) According to Lucas
In 2017, it was emphasized that effective leadership is rooted in strong values and beliefs, necessitating a transformation in organizational structures Modern leaders are tasked with establishing a clear vision, implementing effective strategies, and fostering a cohesive organizational framework To cultivate a unified workforce, leaders must promote a shared value system, enabling employees to collaborate seamlessly as one cohesive unit.
Research Hypotheses and Framework
This study examines the relationship between transformational leadership, as the independent variable, and employee engagement, serving as the moderator variable, with individual performance as the dependent variable Transformational leadership is assessed using a modified version of Bass & Avolio's full-range leadership model (2004) The research focuses on perceived effectiveness rather than just objective effectiveness, drawing on Burns' (2018) framework, which identifies five key characteristics essential for effective individual performance Each characteristic plays a crucial role, and a deficiency in any one of them can hinder optimal performance This assessment scale can be applied across various contexts and industries The analysis will concentrate on the impact of transformational leadership on individual performance, while also exploring the interplay between the independent and dependent variables through the moderator variable.
This thesis explores the literature on research questions, focusing on how leadership transformation impacts employee performance It examines the moderating role of employee engagement between transformational leadership styles (independent variable) and individual performance (dependent variable) The study highlights that transformational leadership affects individual performance both directly and indirectly through its influence on employee engagement Ultimately, individual performance is shaped by the interaction between the characteristics of transformational leadership and employee performance outcomes.
Transformational leadership significantly influences individual performance, highlighting the importance of this leadership style in various contexts According to Bass, this approach fosters motivation and engagement among team members, ultimately enhancing overall productivity and effectiveness By focusing on the impact of transformational leadership, organizations can better understand how to optimize individual performance and drive success.
Transformational leadership, introduced in 1985, enhances organizational performance by fostering employee engagement to achieve collective goals Effective transformational leaders communicate a clear vision, demonstrate personal commitment, and prioritize the interests of their teams They encourage collaboration and individual development while motivating subordinates to work towards shared objectives However, the impact of transformational leadership on efficiency can vary significantly based on the specific context within management literature.
Bass and Avolio (2004) introduced the Full Range Leadership Model, assessed through the Multifactor Leadership Questionnaire (MLQ) version 5X This model evaluates leadership conversion across five key factors: Idealized Influence Attribution (IA), Idealized Influence Behavior (IB), Inspirational Motivation (IM), Intellectual Stimulation (IS), and Individualized Consideration (IC).
The Multifactor Leadership Questionnaire (MLQ) is the most widely utilized instrument for assessing transformational leadership theory, recognized as the premier measure for evaluating both transformational and business leadership As noted by Hughes and CTG (2008), over 300 studies have employed the MLQ to examine transformational leadership across various contexts Furthermore, the MLQ scale has been translated into multiple languages, demonstrating its value and reliability as a research tool (Bass and Riggio, 2006).
From the Hypotheses framework above, this study offers five hypotheses of
Transformational Leadership and five hypotheses of Employee Engagement:
+ H1: Idealized Influence Attribution (IA) feature have a positive impact on
+ H2: Idealized Influence Behavior (IB) feature have a positive impact on
+ H3: Inspirational Motivation (IM) feature have a positive impact on Individual
+H4: Intelectual Stimulation (IS) feature have a positive impact on Individual
+H5: Individualized Consideration (IC) have a positive impact on Individual
+H6.1: Training has positive moderator effects on the relationship between Transformartional Leadership (TL) and Individual Performance (IP)
+H6.2: The impact of Transformational leadership characteristics has positive moderator effects on the relationship between Transformartional Leadership (TL) and Individual Performance (IP)
+H6.3: Pay satisfaction has positive moderator effects on the relationship between Transformartional Leadership (TL) and Individual Performance (IP)
+H6.4: Create a supportive work environment has positive moderator effects on the relationship between Transformartional Leadership (TL) and Individual Performance (IP)
+H6.5: Contribute on nature of career has positive moderator effects on the relationship between Transformartional Leadership (TL) and Individual Performance (IP).
Summary
Chapter two delves into transformational leadership, highlighting its characteristics and influence on various facets of higher education in Vietnam It also examines related concepts such as academic research, individual performance, and employee engagement, elucidating the connections between transformational leadership, employee engagement, and individual performance Furthermore, the chapter contextualizes the current state of Vietnamese higher education, identifying the gaps this study aims to address Theoretical frameworks and hypotheses are established to facilitate analysis in response to the primary research question The following chapter will focus on research methods, processes, and data collection strategies to effectively answer these questions.