Socially Responsible Research?
image by Photo by Arno Senoner on Unsplash
In addition to the need to rethink the way research outcomes are measured, there is also a need to reflect on the role of the university in promoting social equity in education. This includes access to knowledge and information for weaker groups and those at risk of social exclusion. This is where the Erasmus+ Inclusive Responsible Research (IRR) project comes in.
Research traditionally rewards scientific findings that are disseminated within one’s own circle. Social impacts usually receive little attention. As a result, most researchers whose work is assessed within these parameters have a lack of reference points for classifying the wider impact of their work. Consequently, there is little to no interest in the impact of their findings beyond the academic field. In terms of promoting social responsibility, new approaches and forms of support that go beyond theoretical analysis are needed.
3s is working in the IRR project consortium with experts from Spain, Romania, Slovenia and Serbia on indicators, diagnostic tools and guidelines for improving the social impact of research. The findings generated through a thorough empirical approach (including qualitative interviews with around 150 research groups) culminates in an indispensable online guide for researchers.
Project: Inclusive Responsible Research. Knowledge Mobilisation and University Social Responsibility
Contact: Eva Steinheimer
Client: Erasmus+ - Europäische Kommission
Duration: 09/2020-11/2022
