The SCOPE framework - implementing ideals of responsible research assessment

Area of Science:

• Research Management
• Scientific Evaluation
• Higher Education Policy

Background:

• Growing recognition of the significant impact of research evaluation on researchers and institutions.
• Development of guidelines and principles for responsible research assessment (RRA).
• Need for practical frameworks to implement RRA principles effectively.

Purpose of the Study:

• Introduce the SCOPE framework as a practical tool for implementing RRA.
• Demonstrate the applicability and value of SCOPE through real-world case studies.
• Position SCOPE within the broader international movement for improved research evaluation.

Main Methods:

• Development of the SCOPE (Stages, Context, Objectives, Process, Evaluation) framework.
• Presentation of four diverse case studies showcasing SCOPE's application.
• Analysis of SCOPE's utility in planning, designing, conducting, and evaluating research assessments.

Main Results:

• The SCOPE framework provides a structured, five-stage process for research evaluations.
• Case studies illustrate SCOPE's successful application in various organizational contexts and evaluation levels.
• SCOPE facilitates value-based research evaluation and enhances the effectiveness of existing assessments.

Conclusions:

• The SCOPE framework is well-grounded in existing RRA literature.
• SCOPE offers unique considerations beyond current RRA principles, aiding practical implementation.
• Demonstrated value of SCOPE across different institutional types, sizes, and missions.