Recognition of social research sought

Press, 26 September 1989, Page 20

Recognition of social research sought

By

SUZANNE KEEN

Social sciences research has traditionally fared badly in terms ’of support and funding, says the Associate Minister of Education, Mr Scott. He told the Association of Asian Social Science Councils’ conference in Christchurch yesterday that in spite of the importance of social research, it had not received the same support as other areas of scientific or medical research. “Unfortunately that is all too true in New Zealand.” Mr Scott said that social science research in New Zealand had, in the past, been piecemeal, with pilot projects or “good ideas” being developed in the social policy area without a sound research base. The acceptance that past support had been inadequate should not be passive, but should lead to more "positive action in

the future. The Government recognised that quality social science research was an essential ingredient in effective and efficient social policy formation, Mr Scott said. Two reviews dealing with social research and educational research were being done. “Once the outcome - of

the reviews are known, hopefully Government recognition of social research will be able to take a more practical and concrete form,” he said. The association’s president, Dr Terry Loomis, said he found Mr Scott’s comments encouraging. Governments throughout the world were reviewing their expenditure on science and this was a challenge for association members to both argue the importance of social science research and to review their own practices.

The conference, the first to be held in New Zealand, is being attended by representatives from about 15 countries. Two sessions which will be open to the public, are a symposium on cultural perspectives of economic progress, on Wednesday, and a panel discussion dealing with environmental issues on Thursday. The conference is being held at the Avon Hotel.