The work of university faculty has long been devoted to teaching, research and
service, although the extent and ratio of each role function varies from one university
to another and from one discipline to another (Cardozier, 1987; Coser, 1971). Broadly,
academics are expected to conduct research, publish the results of such, and then
convey their knowledge to students through the design of new courses and
participation in curricular innovations (Boyer, 1982; Veblen, 1971). Through their
research professors create knowledge; through teaching and publishing they
disseminate knowledge.