Forging an Innovative Path: Developing a Model to Enhance Scientific Research Team Performance in Private Higher Education Institutions of Shandong Province, China

This study aimed to develop a performance improvement model for scientific research teams in private higher education institutions in Shandong Province, China, to enhance performance levels effectively. To achieve this goal, a combination of quantitative and qualitative research methods was employed. The research findings include the following points: (1) Research team performance primarily comprises four dimensions: task performance, relationship performance, learning performance, and innovation performance. (2) The current performance level of research teams in Shandong Province's private higher education institutions is relatively high, with an average score of 3.68, though there is room for improvement. (3) Transformational leadership, team learning, and team atmosphere significantly impact research team performance in these institutions. The multiple regression model shows a coefficient of determination of r = 0.798, p = 0.000, with R² = 0.637, indicating that these factors can explain 63.7% of the variance in research team performance. (4) Based on the regression analysis, the influencing factors are ranked as follows: team atmosphere (ß = .667, p = .000), transformational leadership (ß = .105, p = .018), and team learning (ß = .103, p = .016). Accordingly, the 3Ts' model was developed to improve the research team performance in private higher education institutions in Shandong Province. After the implementation of the 3T's model, t-test results showed a significant difference between the pre-test and post-test means. The comparison of team outcomes before and after participation further validated the model’s effectiveness. Multidimensional evaluations and interviews confirmed the model’s advantages in innovation, practical value, and operability. Experts and research team members unanimously agreed that the model is suitable for broader application among private higher education institutions in Shandong Province.