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Should Universities Focus on Research or Teaching Methods
There has been a debate over whether universities should concentrate on research or better teaching methods. Nowadays, many universities prefer to improve their teaching methodologies rather than focusing more on research like publications, new discoveries in a field, etc. This change might be necessary for some reasons.
First of all, every university is concerned about its place within national ranking systems. In the past, ranking systems were more related to research done by universities, but today, they are mostly based on how universities teach their students. Of course, this does not mean that ranking systems do not take research into consideration. However, if a university wants to have a higher ranking among other universities, it must pay attention to better teaching methods, as well.
In addition, most people tend to think that research is related to the quality of education, and professors who do more research are better teachers. But it is not true. Of course, more research makes a professor have a better grasp of their subject. However, teaching and research are not related. I know many professors who are great researchers, but they cannot even deliver their knowledge well while giving lectures. Having a better grasp about subject or publishing more does not mean that he or she will teach students better. In fact, those who spend more time on teaching than doing research become better teachers.