Gehalte van werklewe van dosente aan die Universiteit van die Oranje-Vrystaat

Abstract

In this study, the quality of the work-life (QWL) of the lecturing corps of the U.O.F.S. is being investicated. The approach followed includes the observation of the nature (quality) of the interaction between the individual and the entire organisational system of which he/she is a member. As a matter of fact, it embraces all the activities relevant to enhancing organisational effectiveness, viz. the organisational climate, leadership, freedom in decision-making, etc. It also deals with the perceptions of lecturers as far as job satisfaction, compensation, well-being and stress are concerned. As a measuring instrument the Organizational Diagnostic Questionnaire (ODQ-86) was used and some concepts were adapted Jo fit the university as organisation. The results obtained were compared with the results of a norm group of employees in South African organisations. From the results of the study, it is apparent that the general QWL of the lectures at the U.O.F.S. cannot be described as strong or positive. Problem areas identified include organizational climate, workgroup processes, supervisory leadership, and satisfaction with the outputs received. A more positive factor seems to be the quality of task satisfaction. Task orientation should however be balanced with people orientation. The most important recommendation is that concerted attention should be given to the leadership and management styles, skills and abilities of people in management positions, namely deans and departmentheads.