The concept of “research impact” has become increasingly important in the world of academia and beyond. It refers to the influence and relevance of scientific research on society, and can take many forms. From changing behaviors and beliefs to shaping policies and practices, research impact is a crucial aspect of the scientific community’s contribution to the world.
However, the definition of research impact is not fixed and can mean different things to different people. For some, it may refer to the tangible outcomes of research, such as new technologies or treatments. For others, it may encompass the broader societal changes brought about by scientific findings.
Recently, a survey conducted by the UK Collaborative Centre for Housing Evidence (CaCHE) highlighted the views of social scientists on research impact. The results are concerning, as they indicate that many feel unsupported in their efforts to achieve societal impact through their research.
The survey, which involved over 300 social scientists across the UK, found that only 34% felt well-supported by their institutions in seeking societal impact. This is a concerning statistic, as the impact of research is becoming increasingly important in academic evaluation and funding decisions.
Furthermore, the survey showed that 63% of respondents felt that research impact was not given enough importance in their institutions. This raises questions about the value placed on research impact within the academic community and the support provided to researchers in achieving it.
This lack of support is further compounded by the fact that 72% of respondents reported that they were not adequately trained or supported in developing their research for impact. This highlights the need for institutions to provide more resources and training to their researchers in this area.
So, why does research impact matter? Firstly, it is important to remember that research is funded by taxpayers’ money and should therefore benefit society in some way. Research impact ensures that scientific findings are not confined to the walls of academia but are disseminated and translated into meaningful outcomes for society.
Moreover, research impact can also serve as a measure of the relevance and quality of research. If research is not making a difference in society, then questions may be raised about its value and funding may be reduced. Thus, it is crucial for researchers to actively strive for impact to demonstrate the value of their work.
But how can researchers achieve impact? One way is by engaging with stakeholders outside of academia. This could include policymakers, industry professionals, or community organizations. By involving these stakeholders in the research process, researchers can ensure that their findings are relevant and applicable to real-world issues.
Another way is through effective communication and dissemination of research findings. It is not enough for researchers to publish their work in academic journals; they must also make an effort to reach a wider audience through various platforms. This could include writing for popular media outlets, presenting at conferences, or utilizing social media to share their research.
Moreover, universities and other research institutions must also play a significant role in supporting their researchers in achieving impact. This could involve providing funding and resources for knowledge exchange activities, creating opportunities for collaborations with external stakeholders, and recognizing and rewarding research impact in the evaluation of academic performance.
In conclusion, research impact may mean different things to different people, but its importance cannot be overlooked. It is crucial for the scientific community, as well as institutions, to prioritize and support research impact. As the survey findings suggest, there is still a long way to go in ensuring that social scientists feel adequately supported in their efforts to achieve societal impact. It is time for all stakeholders to come together and work towards a more impactful and relevant research culture. As the saying goes, “knowledge is power,” and with the right support and resources, researchers can use their knowledge to create positive change in the world.
