Abstract:
In the context of a visible increase in policy research output, this paper outlines a possible research and development agenda for a newly established Special Interest Group on Policy Processes in Education. The agenda intends to develop a specialised forum for co-operation, communication and exchange among interested researchers, across a spectrum of theoretical and methodological approaches. A variety of institutional foci are also encouraged, including school systems, higher education, and TAFE. The agenda is illustrated by examples of scholarly work in Australia and overseas, followed by plans for possible action.
Close to the heart of scholarly work, a primary component of the agenda focuses on improving the research enterprise itself. Meta- analysis is central here, with an emphasis on history and philosophy of science, epistemology and ethics. We believe our focus on "policy processes" rather than on a generic "policy research" could enhance the "enlightenment" function of policy research, as well as alerting policy makers to new problems and new perspectives on policy problems. The focus on policy processes, that is on policy formation, implementation and evaluation, could also improve the instrumental or applied orientation of research. Social problems amenable to policy solutions could be better identified. The evaluation of current policy initiatives could be refined. The production of pragmatic, action-oriented recommendations to policy makers would be emphasised here. Finally, all agenda components could pay attention to the relation between policy research and policy making, and aim at improving its quality and effectiveness.
Close to the heart of scholarly work, a primary component of the agenda focuses on improving the research enterprise itself. Meta- analysis is central here, with an emphasis on history and philosophy of science, epistemology and ethics. We believe our focus on "policy processes" rather than on a generic "policy research" could enhance the "enlightenment" function of policy research, as well as alerting policy makers to new problems and new perspectives on policy problems. The focus on policy processes, that is on policy formation, implementation and evaluation, could also improve the instrumental or applied orientation of research. Social problems amenable to policy solutions could be better identified. The evaluation of current policy initiatives could be refined. The production of pragmatic, action-oriented recommendations to policy makers would be emphasised here. Finally, all agenda components could pay attention to the relation between policy research and policy making, and aim at improving its quality and effectiveness.