Work engagement of older academic staff : A dissertation submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the Degree of Master of Professional Studies

Abstract

The purpose of the dissertation is to investigate and study extant literature related to work engagement of older academic staff along with associated constructs and concepts to make the subtle nuances which form the essence of engagement of older academic staff more noticeable. The dissertation will identify features and patterns across a number of studies and will integrate and interpret results to produce new knowledge and findings. The study will help understanding of what engagement of older academic staff means, how it can be achieved, and why it is important. The value of the dissertation may be determined by the extent to which the synthesis produces insights which are more than the sum of its parts. Through the investigation of research studies and other relevant literature the dissertation will draw together rich information and valuable insights from the fields of management, psychology, and education to provide a greater understanding of issues to do with workplace ageing and engagement. The dissertation will provide new insights into the factors which influence the physical, cognitive, and emotional engagement of older academic staff. It is hoped that the study will stimulate dialogue about work engagement as a concept and what it means for older academic staff working in tertiary education, with a particular focus on the teaching role.