EXPLORING SOCIAL-PSYCHOLOGICAL DETERMINANTS OF LECTURER MOTIVATION: EVIDENCE FROM PRIVATE UNIVERSITIES IN VIETNAM

Abstract

The rapid expansion of private universities in Vietnam is intensifying competition to attract and retain high-quality lecturers. This study examines the social-psychological determinants of lecturer motivation at private universities in Vietnam. The authors used survey data from 1,125 lecturers at private universities in two major cities, Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh, analysed using a structural equation model (SEM). The analysis showed that working condition factors such as compensation and fairness, workload, and job security had the most positive effects on job satisfaction. Additionally, job satisfaction was also found to have a positive relationship with work motivation. The study contributes to extending the application of motivational theories within the context of private higher education in an emerging economy such as Vietnam.