The evaluation of scientific productivity

Area of Science:

• Bibliometrics and Scientometrics
• Science and Technology Studies
• Research Evaluation

Background:

• The evaluation of scientific productivity is a complex and evolving field.
• The increasing reliance on quantitative metrics (metrification) in science evaluation presents challenges.
• Understanding the historical development and current applications of scientific evaluation is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the metrification of scientific production evaluation.
• To examine the historical construction and current uses of scientific evaluation.
• To identify the paradox between impersonal metrics and scientist recognition.

Main Methods:

• Historical analysis of scientific evaluation practices.
• Review of the institutionalization of metrification in science.
• Overview of the development and application of evaluation indexes.
• Qualitative analysis of scientist perceptions.

Main Results:

• Scientific evaluation has undergone significant institutionalization and metrification.
• Key evaluation indexes have been developed and applied across various contexts.
• A paradox exists where impersonal metrics decrease recognition among scientists.

Conclusions:

• The current system of scientific evaluation faces challenges due to the impersonal nature of metrics.
• Recommendations are provided for formulating a new agenda for scientific evaluation.
• Future research should focus on developing more recognized and effective evaluation methods.