Extract

Despite increasing institutional thrift, or even austerity, some universities and research organizations continue to offer sabbaticals to academic staff (also known as study leave). These are periodic opportunities to set aside teaching and management and concentrate on research, although in some cases sabbatical work may focus on learning and teaching improvement. Sabbaticals are typically, though not necessarily, six months to a year in duration and usually involve conducting work at another institution, often abroad. They are not intended to be a holiday or opportunity for you to paint your house. Sabbatical can be a tremendously refreshing – and demanding – opportunity. On the plus side, sabbatical offers at least six benefits to individual academics (Box 30.1).

BOX 30.1   BENEFITS OF SABBATICAL

•  Rejuvenation and renewal. As the aphorism suggests, ‘A change is as good as a rest’. Simply getting out of your usual routine can allow a real renaissance in your work and attitude to it.

•  Time for reflection. Escaping the everyday demands of ‘administrivia’ and meetings allows opportunity for contemplation on matters such as your research themes, career direction and publishing plans. During sabbatical make yourself scarce in your home institution. Stay away from your office and, where possible, do not answer emails. You are absent. If people have any inkling that you are around you can be assured that they will find urgent, important things for you to do!

•  A fresh perspective. You may have the opportunity to take...