Abstract:

[Purpose/Significance] In today's knowledge economy, where scientific research and innovation drive social change, accurately and scientifically assessing the social impact of scientific research achievements has become key to optimizing the global scientific research ecosystem. This article focuses on the social impact evaluation system of the international scientific research achievement. It provides in-depth analysis of typical international models and strategic guidance for China to build a more comprehensive and efficient evaluation system. [Method/Process] Based on the theoretical definition of the social impact of scientific research achievements, eight major cases of third-party evaluations were selected: the EU SIAMP, the US STAR METRICS, the UK REF, the Dutch SEP, the Italian VQR, the Canadian CAHS, the Australian ERA, and the Japanese NIAD-QE. Using a cross-national comparative analysis method, a comprehensive analysis was conducted across three dimensions: system elements (establishment time, establishing entity, main characteristics, evaluation scope, and strategic objectives), mechanism processes (definition of evaluation objects, establishment of evaluation procedures, application of evaluation results), and methodological tools (definition of social impact-related content, evaluation methods, and indicator content). Subsequently, relevant information was collected through literature research and online research to identify key characteristics. [Results/Conclusions] International evaluation systems are guided by national strategic needs and incorporate social impact into the entire research lifecycle management process through legislation. These systems also link influence to funding allocation. These systems operate using policy-driven mechanisms, collaborative efforts among stakeholders, data-driven methodologies, and dynamic feedback loops. The key characteristics of typical international research evaluation models are as follows: 1) Multi-dimensional indicators: Moving beyond traditional academic metrics, evaluation frameworks now encompass a wide range of impacts, including the effects of research outcomes on social welfare, industrial development, and employment. 2) Dynamic adjustment: As the socio-economic and technological environment evolves, the social impact evaluation systems of international research outcomes also undergo dynamic adjustments and innovations. 3) Multi-stakeholder collaboration: This involves diversified participation, cross-disciplinary and cross-departmental collaboration, and the full involvement of stakeholders throughout the process. Based on the above findings, this study offers insights at different stages of social impact assessment of scientific research achievements. Prior to implementation, additional indicators aligned with domestic strategic priorities, such as environmental sustainability, social equity, and cultural heritage preservation, should be incorporated alongside traditional metrics, and the policy and legal framework should be refined. During implementation, a multi-stakeholder collaborative evaluation platform should be established, and a dynamic system incorporating resilience coefficients should be developed to address uncertainties. After completion, a long-term monitoring and tracking mechanism should be implemented to understand ongoing impacts, with feedback-driven updates to the indicator system. This approach aims to foster a healthy evaluation ecosystem, accelerate the translation of research outcomes into societal value, and promote the integrated development of scientific research and social progress.

Key words: research outcomes, social impact, research evaluation, evaluation system