Unlocking Potential: A Closer Look at Research Engagement and Productivity Among EFL Academics in East Java, Indonesia

The Study highlighted research engagement and productivity among academics in East Java, Indonesia’s private universities. It communicated three research inquiries: 1) How do 30 English Education Departments’ research productivity levels represent 288 Academics in East Java’s private universities? 2) To what extent do EFL academics’ participate in different research-related activities? 3) What drives the EFL academics’ interest in conducting research? Understanding these matters is critical for improving research production and personal performance. The Study utilized a Quantitative descriptive approach by analyzing evidence of overall productivity scores in the Sinta Database. In addition, an online survey was issued to point out academics’ involvement in research and the drives beneath their participation. The findings indicated that the research productivity among 30 English education departments was mainly low. Academics intensively engaged in writing, citing, conducting, and reading research. However, publishing research in recognized international journals indexed by Scopus or Web of Science, publishing in accredited national (Sinta Tiers one and two), and proposing intellectual property rights received less scrutiny. Their research drive was primarily for professional development, knowledge contribution, and self-awareness; research is a component of their job, alongside teaching and community services. However, promotions, governmental positions, and professional allowances were less motivating. The findings emphasize the significance of targeted funding and mentorship to facilitate publications, promote technical advancement, and stimulate the pursuit of intellectual property rights to enhance research productivity.