|
Issues at the Interface of Science and Policy
Conflicting science and public service value systems and differences in conceptual models between the groups.
Communication barriers resulting from differences in language and lack of opportunities for dialogue between science and policy.
Misunderstanding surrounding the science and policy processes.
Difficulties in sustaining team and multidisciplinary work resulting from limitations in science capacity.
|
Cornerstones to Common Purpose and Integration
Informing about roles and fostering a common purpose for science and policy communities.
Organising science/policy work teams around the resolution of key issues.
Providing training and development opportunities with exposure to science or policy processes and issues.
Recognizing and rewarding science contributions to policy work, and policy contributions to science work.
|
Tools, Strategies and Approaches
Review, discuss and publicise roles for science – and policy.
Share information in an iterative process between science and policy.
Communicate around specific issues in an institutionalised process.
Reallocate staff capacity to new teams and research areas using incentives.
Promote development such as job shadowing for science and policy positions.
Educate scientists about the policy process and issues, and vice versa.
Provide opportunities and incentives for work exchanges between science and policy.
Interpret research scientist promotion requirements to recognize contributions to policy development.
Communicate expectations to science and policy groups. |
Benefits
For the science community:
Increased credibility
Increased recognition
Increased trust in policy people
Improved morale
Increased satisfaction
For the policy community:
Increased trust and understanding of science
More proactive policy decisions
More timely policy responses
More effective, robust solutions
For organizations:
Better workplace atmosphere Increased value for money on science investments
Increased relevance of science Better public policy
For the public:
Increased credibility of science Increased confidence in government decision making
Increased support of federal science |
