December 2019 – Kelly Sears has been engaged by Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) to examine the use of Strategic Research Plans (SRPs) as well as other tools and data that might better report on the results of federal government research investment in Canadian post-secondary institutions. The fundamental question of this study asks how exactly do SRPs or other reporting tools inform the federal government of the impact of its investments in university, college and institute research. Ancillary inquiry will explore strengths and weaknesses of SRPs, identify possible alternatives, and assess the applicability of good practices in other jurisdictions around the world. Interviews will be carried out with a sample of universities and other research institutions along with the federal granting agencies and CFI. This study will be completed in March 2020.
