Zahrah Mokhtar
Universiti Teknologi MARA
Shah Alam

Date: 25 October 2001
Time: 5.00-5.30

To conduct your study in your own backyard (within your own institution) is not advisable. Such studies, though attractive and tempting, may generate problems through involvement in and commitment to their familiar territory (Glesne & Peshkin, 1992).  Whilst insider research can also invite resistance and cause anxiety, its advantages outweigh its perils. Challenging the above assumption, the researcher was convinced that in order to gain insights and essence of deaning, especially in understanding and clarifying the dean’s managerial roles while managing the faculty within a fluid Malaysian university environment in the 21st century, was to get inside the organisation.  Employing a multimethod data collection process – participant observation, in-depth interview and analyzing documents – the researcher shares her challenges and invaluable experiences in securing the gatekeeper’s and research participants’ agreement and cooperation for the conduct of the study.  The research attempts to shed light empirically as to how organisational behavior and managerial practices relate to theoretical propositions.  Issues of gaining accessibility, and rigor of data collection and ethical consideration are discussed.