FACULTY UNIONISM AND BARGAINING GOALS: EVIDENCE FROM THE PUBLIC SECTOR

SAHAB DAYAL


DOI: 10.2190/ECH4-DP06-VE6Q-W5W0

Abstract

In recent years a marked increase in union membership among university professors has coincided with a significant growth in the incidence of collective bargaining in higher education. Using a major public university as a sample, this study examined bargaining unit attitudes and perceptions as they relate to bargaining priorities and faculty union performance. Based on survey questionnaire and interviews, this study found considerable support for the proposition and unionized professionals' concerns go beyond the traditional economic issues. While several professional issues seem to be relevant to the formulation of bargaining priorities and goals, issues of academic freedom and personnel decision making (especially criteria and procedures for reappointment, tenure, and promotion to higher rank) are predominant. The presence of a faculty union on a university campus by itself raises the membership's expectations to a point that may be hard to satisfy.

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