Strategy

Strategy

Evaluation of Science Policy in the National Comprehensive Scientific Map Based on the Cyclical Model

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors
Rohollah Eslami 1
Amin Marvi 2
1 Assistant Professor, Department of Political Science, Faculty of Law and Political Science, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
2 Master of Political Science, Faculty of Law and Political Science, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
10.22034/rahbord.2025.476096.1720
Abstract
Science and technology policy is one of the key domains of public policymaking. This article evaluates Iran's National Comprehensive Scientific Map (NCSM), which represents the highest-level policy document in the field of science and technology, through the lens of the cyclical policy model. Employing an institutional approach, the evaluation encompasses five stages: inputs, design, implementation, outputs, and evaluation. The input stage reveals that while the impetus for drafting the NCSM originated from governmental institutions, it lacked broad-based support from societal stakeholders, leading to difficulties in establishing a robust policy discourse. In the design stage, the article examines the drafting mechanisms, institutional actors, structural components, overarching goals, and strategic priorities of the map. The implementation stage assesses the map's integration with the Fifth and Sixth National Development Plans. In the output stage, using official statistics, the paper evaluates the extent to which the quantitative targets set by the NCSM have been achieved. The evaluation stage identifies strengths and weaknesses across the input, design, and implementation phases. Based on this analysis, the article offers policy recommendations aimed at enhancing the effectiveness of the current NCSM and informing the development of future science policy frameworks.
 
Keywords
Science and technology policy
national comprehensive scientific map
policy cycle
institutionalism

Subjects

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  • Receive Date 30 August 2024
  • Revise Date 14 February 2025
  • Accept Date 05 March 2025