Abstract
ARGUMENT CULTURE IN ACADEMIC LIFE: A PHENOMENOLOGICAL RESEARCH
In this research, descriptions of academicians related to the argument culture in academia was analyzed. This research which was designed as a qualitative study and data was gathered via focus group and semi-structred questionnaires. Focus group was consisted of research assistants of an educational faculty in Ankara whereas semi-structured interviews were consisted of professors of the same faculty. All the participants were selected by the easily accessible case sampling method. According to the results, academicians were of the opinion that argument culture had functions such as developing the individual and the society, feeding the critical thinking skills and curiosity. Academicians indicated that lack of argument culture harmed academic and scientific productivity in terms of quality and quantity. Lastly, among the most important reasons which prevened the development of argument culture were; academic hierarchy, the style in academic discussions, parenting styles of individuals, personalization of discussions, jealousy and competitions.
Keywords
Argument Culture, Academicians, Faculty, Academic Life
