| Session Title: Science of Science Management: Development of Assessment Methodologies to determine Research and Development Progress and Impact |
| Think Tank Session 924 to be held in Centennial Section H on Saturday, Nov 8, 4:00 PM to 5:30 PM |
| Sponsored by the Research, Technology, and Development Evaluation TIG and the Government Evaluation TIG |
| Presenter(s): |
| Deborah Duran, National Institutes of Health, durand@od.nih.gov |
| Abstract: Research and development funders seek to fund effective, efficient, and impactful programs. However, current methodologies are insufficient to assess the practical application of many innovative R&D programs. Under the current approach of setting planned annual milestones, assessments may indicate met or unmet; but fail to address the adaptive learning involved with the scientific discovery process. For example, projects may struggle to initially meet the planned goals; but, later adapt using sound scientific principles and discovery processes. This example highlights an important problem in science management: What patterns, pathways, or profiles can be developed to assess performance and identify intervention points? The emerging field of Science of Science Management strives to develop systematic studies to explore the complexities of science administration, to provide evidence and analytic tools for decision making, and to inform science policy. |