Performing research at university centers for academic development – an explorative case study in Sweden

The aim is to explore the absence or presence of, and motives for, research at centers for academic development and to problematize the research situation among academic developers. Boyer’s and Healey’s theories are used as lenses for the analysis based on the questionnaires that were used for data collection. The conclusion is that research is a challenging and sensitive area for university centers for academic development, and that both teaching positions and research funds are needed. Research is usually not included in the missions of centers; staff do not normally hold research positions. Unclear research directions and opposing interests weaken the centers’ ability to hire qualified staff and deliver high-quality teaching.