|
|
 |
| |
|
|
 |
|
Each year the KNAW conducts a
number of research foresight studies in order to shape the thinking and
discussion about scientific developments in a particular field and to create
the optimal conditions for the development of that particular field of science. See: Outline of the Academy research foresight studies.
Those conditions are created not just by the publication of a report with
specific recommendations for policy in that field of science and the
determination of priorities but also by the foresight process itself. If
researchers, policymakers, fund providers, users and other relevant actors are
brought together for the purposes of a foresight study, a forward-looking
network is then formed that can play an indispensable role in the development
of a particular area of science.
|
|
|
Scientific perspective
In Nothing Ventured, Nothing Gained; Science Budget
2000 (June 1999) the Ministry of
Education, Culture and Science (OCW) draws a distinction between 'foresight
studies from a scientific perspective' and 'foresight studies on subjects of
social importance'. The KNAW conducts foresight studies from a scientific
perspective, while the sector councils conduct foresight studies on subjects of
social importance. For a list of organisations in the Netherlands and elsewhere
that conduct foresight studies, see Links.
|
|
|
Foresight questions
A foresight study
from a scientific perspective is generally concerned with helping the Dutch
research in the foresight field to tie in more effectively with possible future
trends and developments in both the national and international social context.
Key questions include:
- Where are the
opportunities?
- Are there
threats?
- What is the subject of
consensus / what recommendations can be made?
|
|
|
Working methods
In many cases one or
more of KNAW advisory councils will take the initiative for a foresight study.
The KNAW board decides whether or not foresight studies should go ahead and
appoints a foresight study committee to conduct each foresight study. Before a
foresight study gets off the ground, a preliminary study will generally be
performed on the basis of which the decision to proceed can be taken. The
preliminary study will identify the area to be surveyed and the main aims of
the foresight study. A general proposal will also be made concerning the
composition of the foresight study committee and the way in which the foresight
study is to be conducted. Within the framework laid down by the KNAW board, the
foresight study committee decides how the foresight study is to be conducted.
|
|
|
