This Evaluation Framework is a key output of a project commissioned jointly by the Department for Innovation, Universities and Skills (DIUS) and the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC). The main aim of the project was to develop an approach for evaluating ‘Science and Society’ initiatives, and it encompassed three phases:
- development of a draft evaluation framework;
- piloting the framework in a real-world programme;
- and revising the Framework in the light of the pilot results.
‘Science and Society’ initiatives cover a broad spectrum of activities, from ‘public awareness-raising’ actions to educational initiatives aimed at encouraging young people to study science and related subjects in school. They reflect a number of policy agendas and actions – such as the ‘Science and Innovation Investment Framework – Next Steps 2004-2014’ and the ‘Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Report’ – which in turn highlight a number of issues that currently preoccupy policy-makers.
These include concerns about the UK lagging behind in global research and technology (RTD) investment; a decline in the numbers of students studying Science Technology Engineering and Maths (STEM) subjects; a perception that the UK needs to improve its science, technology and engineering skills base; and the recognition that science can play a major role in contributing to improved quality of life and in promoting social inclusion.
