Moving beyond the ivory tower – why researchers from the field of education should go ahead

Abstract

Abstract. Since the beginning of the 21st century universities are increasingly requested to use the results produced by their first (teaching) and second mission (research) to help resolve the growing challenges societies and local communities are faced with. This obligation has been codified as the Third Mission of universities. However, research and its results often seem to remain in the so-called ivory tower and realization of successful transfer often failed. Empirical research clearly shows that the key factor for successful transfer is to involve an intensive cooperation between researchers, policymakers, and practitioners within a mutually respectful, collaborative process. However, the establishment of a high quality and fruitful cooperation among these different groups is difficult. In the paper, possible reasons for poor transfer of research findings on part of researchers, practitioners, and policymakers are discussed as well as demands for successful transfer. A systematic six-step procedure for policy impact from research is presented, which summarizes the most relevant actions to be taken and issues to be considered on the part of (individual) researchers for realizing successful transfer. Universities can provide a supportive environment through the development of a distinct Third Mission profile including criteria and incentives for transfer activities of single researchers. It is the intention of this paper to convince researchers from the field of education to go ahead in moving beyond the ivory tower and to engage in transfer of scientific knowledge. One reason is the high importance of education for society. Another reason is that the competences and experiences necessary for successful transfer of research to the wider field of policy and practice are core competences and experiences of researchers from the field of education.