The Journal of Science Policy and Research Management

Formulating the 3rd Basic Plan Vigorously

Koji OMI

Article type: Article
2004 Volume 19 Issue 1_2 Pages 4-5
Published: September 20, 2004
Released on J-STAGE: December 29, 2017

DOIhttps://doi.org/10.20801/jsrpim.19.1_2_4

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The Science and Technology Basic Law, enforced in 1995, gave science and technology top priority in the national policy. It also requires the Government to formulate the Science and Technology Basic Plan. The current plan is the second one covering FY2001-2005. Its main goal is not only to facilities and equipment increase the science and technology budget, but to create a more dynamic, competitive R&D systems driven by individuals' creativity. Various reform measures have been implemented. However, Japan has yet to solidify its strategic programs and systems to survive global competition and to cope with changes in the domestic environment such as the decreasing birth rate and growing interest in safety and security. Now, vigorous discussion is expected to develop the 3rd Basic Plan.

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Ten Years since Science and Technology Basic Law : Standpoints for discussing the Third Phase of the Basic Plan(<Special Issue>PROSPECTS OF THE THIRD PHASE OF THE SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY BASIC PLAN)

Tateo ARIMOTO

Article type: Article
2004 Volume 19 Issue 1_2 Pages 6-9
Published: September 20, 2004
Released on J-STAGE: December 29, 2017

DOIhttps://doi.org/10.20801/jsrpim.19.1_2_6

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The circumstance of science and technology activities in Japan has seen considerable changes during the ten years since the enforcement of the Science and Technology Basic Law in 1995. A survey shows that the general public is now less interested in science and technology than ten years ago, while paying more attention to spiritual enrichment of life. In addition, pressure from decreasing birth rate is more evident than ever. Discussions on the Third Phase of the Science and Technology Basic Plan should, therefore, include such issues as S&T policies in relation to longterm national goals (including national security and competitiveness), recruitment of personnel in the S&T fields, and effective communications between S&T experts and the public.

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The National Strategy in an Age of Historical Transformation(<Special Issue>PROSPECTS OF THE THIRD PHASE OF THE SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY BASIC PLAN)

Moriya UCHIDA

Article type: Article
2004 Volume 19 Issue 1_2 Pages 10-13
Published: September 20, 2004
Released on J-STAGE: December 29, 2017

DOIhttps://doi.org/10.20801/jsrpim.19.1_2_10

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Although Japan's survival depends solely on science and technology and free trade, the current S&T policy of the country does not seem to reflect a nation's will to overcome national and global problems using science and technology. Issues such as uncertainty of food and energy supply or struggle between cultural traditions indicate that we are now at a turning point of the modern civilization. Science and technology policy, including university reform, should be based on a clear vision of the way to cope with them.

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A Suggestion for Turning R&D Outcomes into National Assets(<Special Issue>PROSPECTS OF THE THIRD PHASE OF THE SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY BASIC PLAN)

Hisato OKAMOTO

Article type: Article
2004 Volume 19 Issue 1_2 Pages 14-17
Published: September 20, 2004
Released on J-STAGE: December 29, 2017

DOIhttps://doi.org/10.20801/jsrpim.19.1_2_14

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Outcomes of R&D activities in the framework of the Science and Technology Basic Plan should materialize as benefit for and assets of the Japanese nation. The Third Phase of the Plan should include studies to assure this. Upgrading social stock is a key to optimize Japan's cost structure and to reduce environmental burden. This will also contribute to create new industries for the domestic market. The research process for this purpose should be organized according to a total view on the society and environment, instead of simple sum of specific needs.

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Next Step of Science and Innovation Policy(<Special Issue>PROSPECTS OF THE THIRD PHASE OF THE SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY BASIC PLAN)

Ryoji DOI

Article type: Article
2004 Volume 19 Issue 1_2 Pages 18-21
Published: September 20, 2004
Released on J-STAGE: December 29, 2017

DOIhttps://doi.org/10.20801/jsrpim.19.1_2_18

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While the first and second 5-year plan of the Science and Technology Basic Policy has been generally successful, a further step is needed to create the virtuous cycle between innovation and demand for the next 5 years. Underlining the importance of re-allocation of R&D finance and human resource to the strategic field where Japan has inherently competitiveness advantage and re-establishment of the Japan's own model of innovation reflecting the Japanese social and economic structure, the paper proposes three key policy agenda - enhancing fundamental research through a competitive environment and adequate research management and evaluation, reforming the government R&D management in a more flexible and pragmatic manner, and improving engineering education, especially in universities and graduate schools.

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For the Third Phase of the Science and Technology Basic Plan(<Special Issue>PROSPECTS OF THE THIRD PHASE OF THE SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY BASIC PLAN)

Koichi KITAZAWA

Article type: Article
2004 Volume 19 Issue 1_2 Pages 22-25
Published: September 20, 2004
Released on J-STAGE: December 29, 2017

DOIhttps://doi.org/10.20801/jsrpim.19.1_2_22

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The paper presents several tasks to be considered in future science and technology policy. The two most important goals for future strategy are providing programs ambitious enough to inspire the youth, and making science and technology a common property of the public. Pursuing cost reduction only cannot motivate the youth to work in science and technology, which is an essential factor for the nation's survival. Equally important is social acceptance of science and technology which is now at a critical state due to the environmental and bioethical problems. In the present circumstances, the government is responsible for expanding communication between experts and citizens.

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Issues for the Third Phase of the Science and Technology Basic Plan(<Special Issue>PROSPECTS OF THE THIRD PHASE OF THE SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY BASIC PLAN)

Ryo HIRASAWA

Article type: Article
2004 Volume 19 Issue 1_2 Pages 26-29
Published: September 20, 2004
Released on J-STAGE: December 29, 2017

DOIhttps://doi.org/10.20801/jsrpim.19.1_2_26

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The paper analyzes the present state of the current S&T policy and identifies issues for the future, specifically for the Third Phase of the Science and Technology Basic Plan : (1) establishing a strategic organization, (2) creating an institute for long-term strategic planning with competent personnel, (3) reforming the evaluation system for better understanding of the performance of the projects including managerial aspects, (4) transforming the research categories to reflect different types of research topics, for each of which appropriate promotion and management systems are to be established, (5) better collaboration of the MEXT with other agencies, (6) focusing the role of the Cabinet Office to general management, and (7) enhancing specialized competence incorporated in the administration.

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Expectation for Science and Technology Strategy with Long-term and Diverse Viewpoint(<Special Issue>PROSPECTS OF THE THIRD PHASE OF THE SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY BASIC PLAN)

Tadashi SHIOMI

Article type: Article
2004 Volume 19 Issue 1_2 Pages 30-31
Published: September 20, 2004
Released on J-STAGE: December 29, 2017

DOIhttps://doi.org/10.20801/jsrpim.19.1_2_30

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The Basic Plan should ensure the continuity of principal R&D subjects as well as diversity in terms of fundamental/applied research and geographical locations of research centers. It is also required to refine research evaluation systems. Other issues include improvement of education, enhancement of workforce mobility, and collaboration programs with Asian countries.

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Restructuring of Japanese Regional Innovation Systems(<Special Issue>PROSPECTS OF THE THIRD PHASE OF THE SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY BASIC PLAN)

Tetsuya YOSHIMURA

Article type: Article
2004 Volume 19 Issue 1_2 Pages 32-36
Published: September 20, 2004
Released on J-STAGE: December 29, 2017

DOIhttps://doi.org/10.20801/jsrpim.19.1_2_32

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Effective operation of regional innovation systems, as proclaimed in the Third Phase of the Science and Technology Basic Plan, existing structures should be fundamentally revised. The author proposes a national-local joint effort to establish centers of excellence, restructuring of public research laboratories for acceptance of research commission, networking for research administration, and integration of local and national innovation policies. Several examples in other countries are mentioned.

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Prospects of the Third Phase of the Science and Technology Basic Plan(<Special Issue>PROSPECTS OF THE THIRD PHASE OF THE SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY BASIC PLAN)

Yuko HARAYAMA

Article type: Article
2004 Volume 19 Issue 1_2 Pages 37-39
Published: September 20, 2004
Released on J-STAGE: December 29, 2017

DOIhttps://doi.org/10.20801/jsrpim.19.1_2_37

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The Science and Technology Basic Law has been implemented through the Science and Technology Basic Plan. The First Phase of the Plan was focused on improvement of research environment, with quantitative goals. Success was mixed, which prompted the emphasis on prioritized subject selection and contribution to competitiveness in the second phase, along with innovations of the S&T systems including higher education. The results of the second phase are now under assessment. Issues remaining to be dealt with include incorporation of unexpected but urgent research topics, and devising an incentive mechanism to ensure consistency between the policy and specific projects.

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Political Initiative for Progress of Science and Technology Policy(<Special Issue>PROSPECTS OF THE THIRD PHASE OF THE SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY BASIC PLAN)

Kenzo FUJISUE

Article type: Article
2004 Volume 19 Issue 1_2 Pages 40-42
Published: September 20, 2004
Released on J-STAGE: December 29, 2017

DOIhttps://doi.org/10.20801/jsrpim.19.1_2_40

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Review of the Second Phase of the Science and Technology Basic Plan shows that the budget allocation to government agencies is not flexible, that the flow of public fund to the industry is scarce, and that the performance of public research organizations are not fully evaluated. These should be corrected in the Third Phase of the Basic Plan, by strengthening the Council for Science and Technology Policy to lead budget allocation, implementing tax reduction for R&D activities in the industry, and improving the research evaluation systems, particularly that for innovative research subjects, along with increasing competitive R&D funds. A political initiative will be needed to perform these tasks that mean considerable changes in Japan's S&T policy.

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MLIT's Technological Policies Based on the Science and Technology Basic Plan(<Special Issue>PROSPECTS OF THE THIRD PHASE OF THE SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY BASIC PLAN)

Makio SHICHIJO

Article type: Article
2004 Volume 19 Issue 1_2 Pages 43-45
Published: September 20, 2004
Released on J-STAGE: December 29, 2017

DOIhttps://doi.org/10.20801/jsrpim.19.1_2_43

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The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport (MLIT) developed a "MLIT technology basic plan" in 2003 based on the Second Phase of the Science and Technology Basic Plan. Its purpose is to promote R&D programs that meet the national needs. The plan is organized around five strategic targets : safety, environment, cost reduction, competitiveness and participation. Ten R&D projects are planned for realization of these goals. In addition, a series of reforms are needed to optimize resources allocation to these projects and to materialize the outcomes of the projects effectively for improving the quality of life.

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The Third Phase of the Science and Technology Basic Plan as Viewed from a Local Standpoint(<Special Issue>PROSPECTS OF THE THIRD PHASE OF THE SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY BASIC PLAN)

Eisaku NISHIYAMA

Article type: Article
2004 Volume 19 Issue 1_2 Pages 46-47
Published: September 20, 2004
Released on J-STAGE: December 29, 2017

DOIhttps://doi.org/10.20801/jsrpim.19.1_2_46

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Japan's Science and Technology Basic Plan has successfully enhanced fundamental research activities and promoted industry-academia collaboration, though there are still relatively few success stories of academy-based venture businesses. The Tohoku district has seen burgeoning consortia and academy-based ventures, but has yet to attract more businesses related to some prioritized target areas to form a network between different players. A candidate for this particular district is MEMS, for which one of the leading research laboratory exists in Tohoku University. The Third Phase of the Plan should take regional initiatives into account, including transfer of financial sources to local authorities.

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Promotion of Cross-Disciplinary Science and Technology(<Special Issue>PROSPECTS OF THE THIRD PHASE OF THE SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY BASIC PLAN)

Michiyuki UENOHARA

Article type: Article
2004 Volume 19 Issue 1_2 Pages 48-49
Published: September 20, 2004
Released on J-STAGE: December 29, 2017

DOIhttps://doi.org/10.20801/jsrpim.19.1_2_48

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In spite of much criticism, the Japanese R&D system still remains rather compartmentalized and suffers from insufficient cross-disciplinary cooperation. This is a major obstacle against fusion of natural science, social science and humanities, a prerequisite for the industry to fulfill the needs in an information-oriented society. Advanced technologies cannot effectively serve the society without integrating known technologies and knowledge in a wide variety of disciplines, not to mention further promotion of fundamental research and new technological developments. Essential research subjects should be identified through collaborative efforts of specialists in technology, natural science, social science and humanities. This will also be an opportunity for small and medium-sized enterprises to participate in cooperation with the academic circle.

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Future of Space Development : From technology policy to multipurpose policy(<Special Issue>PROSPECTS OF THE THIRD PHASE OF THE SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY BASIC PLAN)

Satoshi KUMATA

Article type: Article
2004 Volume 19 Issue 1_2 Pages 50-51
Published: September 20, 2004
Released on J-STAGE: December 29, 2017

DOIhttps://doi.org/10.20801/jsrpim.19.1_2_50

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The Japanese policy on space development has considerably extended its scope, emphasizing industrial applications and enhanced role of the private sector. However, the new policy has several problems : 1) strategic initiative of the government in the fields with limited ties to industry, such as space science or space probe, is not clearly specified, 2) regulations on activities of the private sector in space development should be adapted according to the changing competitive business environment, 3) comprehensive policy should be established to integrate related fields such as communication, environmental protection and defense. The Third Phase of the Basic Plan should respond to these tasks.

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Dissipation of Intellectual Assets and Accumulation of Human Skill(<Special Issue>PROSPECTS OF THE THIRD PHASE OF THE SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY BASIC PLAN)

Junichi Kikuchi

Article type: Article
2004 Volume 19 Issue 1_2 Pages 52-53
Published: September 20, 2004
Released on J-STAGE: December 29, 2017

DOIhttps://doi.org/10.20801/jsrpim.19.1_2_52

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Increased mobility of intellectual workforce in Japan will lead to serious problems in management of intellectual assets. The "dissipation" of intellectual assets by a loss of personnel will affect not only individual companies but the country at large. A way to cope with this is to include an ADR provision in the nondisclosure agreement between an enterprise and its ex-employees as a basis for preventive actions. In a broader context, the intellectual property liaison as an organization for implementation of IAM should be explicitly established.

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For R&D Acceleration and Breakthrough in Better Communication with the Market(<Special Issue>PROSPECTS OF THE THIRD PHASE OF THE SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY BASIC PLAN)

Akio MOTAI

Article type: Article
2004 Volume 19 Issue 1_2 Pages 54-55
Published: September 20, 2004
Released on J-STAGE: December 29, 2017

DOIhttps://doi.org/10.20801/jsrpim.19.1_2_54

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Information technology (IT) is an important social infrastructure, and one of Japan's strong points. The "e-Japan" strategy established in 2001 resulted in a very favorable circumstance for IT development, particularly for the fusion of broadcasting and telecommunication. The author proposes establishment of "IT test beds" as a facility for research and data collection for commercialization and standardization of new products. Such IT testbeds, integrated in a network and connected to research centers in other countries, should serve Japanese contribution to the world as well as introduction of novel research topics.

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Expectations for the Third Phase of the Science and Technology Basic Plan : Importance of basic sciences(<Special Issue>PROSPECTS OF THE THIRD PHASE OF THE SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY BASIC PLAN)

Tetsuo SAITO

Article type: Article
2004 Volume 19 Issue 1_2 Pages 56-57
Published: September 20, 2004
Released on J-STAGE: December 29, 2017

DOIhttps://doi.org/10.20801/jsrpim.19.1_2_56

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After the first and second phases of the Science and Technology Basic Plan, in which increase in R&D funding and prioritization of research topics, respectively, were realized, the third phase should emphasize basic sciences. Before the national universities were reorganized into Independent Administrative Corporations, many academics and researchers expressed a persuasive apprehension of decline in basic research. The Basic Plan should explicitly ensure that the universities pursue their proper mission.

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Strategy Change from Competition for Top-Tier to Competition for Uniqueness(<Special Issue>PROSPECTS OF THE THIRD PHASE OF THE SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY BASIC PLAN)

Makoto TAKAYAMA

Article type: Article
2004 Volume 19 Issue 1_2 Pages 58-61
Published: September 20, 2004
Released on J-STAGE: December 29, 2017

DOIhttps://doi.org/10.20801/jsrpim.19.1_2_58

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The current mode of competition in the Japanese industry is competition for the top tier. This is essentially competition for the highest asset value of the business but not for long-term excellence. The author reviews the history of this type of competition, discusses problems inherent to it, including possible moral hazard, and points out that it does not favor planning for the uncertain future for which the traditional Japanese management was prepared with accumulated internal resources. This situation requires that the Science and Technology Basic Plan incorporate careful strategies for commercialization of its outcomes. The key for long-term survival strategy is quest for uniqueness.

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What I Expect of the Third Phase of the Science and Technology Basic Plan(<Special Issue>PROSPECTS OF THE THIRD PHASE OF THE SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY BASIC PLAN)

Fujio NIWA

Article type: Article
2004 Volume 19 Issue 1_2 Pages 62-63
Published: September 20, 2004
Released on J-STAGE: December 29, 2017

DOIhttps://doi.org/10.20801/jsrpim.19.1_2_62

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This paper presents three aspects what I expect of the Third Phase of the Science and Technology (S&T) Basic Plan. First, the plan should sufficiently be structured for a higher validity of the Plan itself and it is necessary to conduct adequate evaluation of the policy. One of the methods for structuring is target systematization for S&T Policy. Second, the demand side factor should be more emphasized in policy formation to materialize the often proclaimed harmonization of S&T with the society. Third, the Plan should be based on ideas about future shared among the policymakers, which, in their turn, should be based on long-term forecasts. Systematic "future work-shops" for all personnel concerned is necessary for this purpose.

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What Is the Target of "Government R&D Investment" in the Science and Technology Basic Plan?(<Special Issue>PROSPECTS OF THE THIRD PHASE OF THE SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY BASIC PLAN)

Ryuji SHIMODA

Article type: Article
2004 Volume 19 Issue 1_2 Pages 64-67
Published: September 20, 2004
Released on J-STAGE: December 29, 2017

DOIhttps://doi.org/10.20801/jsrpim.19.1_2_64

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The Government R&D Investment (GRDI) is an important parameter in the Science and Technology Basic Plan. However, it has not been clearly defined and its relationship to the S&T-Related Expenses (STE), for which the first phase had set a target of 17 trillion yen and attained it, remains unclear. The author interprets GRDI as equivalent to Government-Funded R&D Expenses (GFRE), the sum of the expenditures of the government and local authorities. Analysis based on this assumption shows that a GFRE target value is achieved only by a far greater amount of STE is needed. In addition, the frequently quoted GFRE/GDP ratio is not entirely sufficient reasoning for the increase of the STE.

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An Analysis of Resource Allocation for Research(<Special Issue>PROSPECTS OF THE THIRD PHASE OF THE SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY BASIC PLAN)

Shinichi YAMAMOTO

Article type: Article
2004 Volume 19 Issue 1_2 Pages 68-69
Published: September 20, 2004
Released on J-STAGE: December 29, 2017

DOIhttps://doi.org/10.20801/jsrpim.19.1_2_68

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Although R&D funding has greatly been improved under the Science and Technology Basic Plan, many problems remain about other resources, such as facility maintenance costs, supporting personnel and time for research. A survey on about 15,000 faculty members revealed differences in circumstances for different research areas : time and document materials are far more important than funding for some areas in humanities and social sciences. In contrast, researchers in natural sciences and engineering require more supporting personnel (assistants, post-doctoral fellows, graduate students) and facilities. This indicates that allocation of resources other than money has yet to be optimized for effective research activities.

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Reformation of Public Funding to University for Creating the Next Generation(<Special Issue>PROSPECTS OF THE THIRD PHASE OF THE SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY BASIC PLAN)

Koji TANABE

Article type: Article
2004 Volume 19 Issue 1_2 Pages 70-71
Published: September 20, 2004
Released on J-STAGE: December 29, 2017

DOIhttps://doi.org/10.20801/jsrpim.19.1_2_70

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For the universities to act effectively as the forerunner of the future, diversity in research subjects and flexibility to adapt research subjects or directions to social needs are essential. This can be realized through an appropriate research funding scheme. The Science and Technology Basic Plan is failing the target of doubling competitive research funds. This is clear when compared with the research financing system in the U.S. where 60% of the academic R&D expenses are covered by public funding. The Third Phase of the Science and Technology Basic Plan should incorporate a keynote plan for university reform through incentives given by the government funding.

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Financing the Investment for Research and Development(<Special Issue>PROSPECTS OF THE THIRD PHASE OF THE SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY BASIC PLAN)

Shoji KAMETANI

Article type: Article
2004 Volume 19 Issue 1_2 Pages 72-74
Published: September 20, 2004
Released on J-STAGE: December 29, 2017

DOIhttps://doi.org/10.20801/jsrpim.19.1_2_72

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While the Science and Technology Basic Plan states that the financing level of R&D in Japan is far behind that in the U.S. and Europe, the national finance urgently needs balancing. After identifying types of R&D projects that need public financing, the author proposes to maximize financial efficiency by supporting the detailed planning of an R&D project with market research and evaluation of profitability on the project outcomes, along with an effective financing strategy.

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Role of Product-developing SMEs in Formation of Regional Clusters(<Special Issue>PROSPECTS OF THE THIRD PHASE OF THE SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY BASIC PLAN)

Toshihiro KODAMA

Article type: Article
2004 Volume 19 Issue 1_2 Pages 76-79
Published: September 20, 2004
Released on J-STAGE: December 29, 2017

DOIhttps://doi.org/10.20801/jsrpim.19.1_2_76

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The Second Phase of the Science and Technology Basic Plan plays up regional clusters as a type of innovation mechanism where university-industry collaboration is expected to effectively work in regional basis. This paper examines what type of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) can play a role of promoters of university-industry collaboration in industry side and consequently of formation of regional clusters. "Product-developing SMEs" defined as SMEs that can develop and sell products designed by them own can play such a role. This characteristic of product-developing SMEs is demonstrated by a statistical analysis using data from TAMA (Technology Advanced Metropolitan Area), a typical case of industrial cluster formation initiative in the western metropolitan area. We should pay more attention to such product-developing SMEs to promote the formation of regional clusters.

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Science & Technology Policy Corresponding to Paradigm Shift(<Special Issue>PROSPECTS OF THE THIRD PHASE OF THE SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY BASIC PLAN)

Kunihiko TANIGUCHI

Article type: Article
2004 Volume 19 Issue 1_2 Pages 80-83
Published: September 20, 2004
Released on J-STAGE: December 29, 2017

DOIhttps://doi.org/10.20801/jsrpim.19.1_2_80

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Implementation of S&T policies should take into account paradigm shifts in the industry. Examples of the paradigm shift includes expansion of the manufacturing industry to value-added service activities, such as GE's supplies and services provided on the sensor network based on the GPS, and transformation of small- and medium-sized enterprises from passive subcontractors to active creators/marketers of new products. Another requirement for restructuring S&T policies comes from the issue of intellectual property protection in the Asian market where Japan's position lags Western countries.

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Implication from Today's R&D Activities of 100 Enterprises of Japan(<Special Issue>PROSPECTS OF THE THIRD PHASE OF THE SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY BASIC PLAN)

Yuko YASUNAGA, Hiroyuki YAMADA, Hironori KAWAMURA, Takahiro YABE, Saka ...

Article type: Article
2004 Volume 19 Issue 1_2 Pages 84-89
Published: September 20, 2004
Released on J-STAGE: December 29, 2017

DOIhttps://doi.org/10.20801/jsrpim.19.1_2_84

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NEDO conducted interviews with 102 selected enterprises for evaluation of the national S&T policies in cooperation with METI. The paper summarizes the results by categorizing the opinions collected. Principal comments included : importance of high risk, long-term projects ; need for flexibility in project management taking into account the inevitable uncertainty of R&D and possible applications unexpected at the beginning of the project ; importance of interdisciplinary areas ; and the necessity of eradication of the old follow-the-crowd mentality which has prevented Japanese companies from attaining a really leading position.

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Expectations for a New Science and Technology Plan from the Viewpoint of a Private Enterprise(<Special Issue>PROSPECTS OF THE THIRD PHASE OF THE SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY BASIC PLAN)

Masaharu SAKUTA

Article type: Article
2004 Volume 19 Issue 1_2 Pages 90-93
Published: September 20, 2004
Released on J-STAGE: December 29, 2017

DOIhttps://doi.org/10.20801/jsrpim.19.1_2_90

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Private enterprises have been playing a very important role in Japan's science and technology activities. From their point of view, the Science and Technology Basic Plan has several problems, including research evaluation by rigid formulas, inadequate treatment of graduate students and young researchers, and thoughtless outsourcing of research in some national projects. These observations should be taken into account in formulating the national S&T policy.

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Toward Policy Evaluation of the Science and Technology Basic Plan Using Technology Forecast Survey(<Special Issue>PROSPECTS OF THE THIRD PHASE OF THE SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY BASIC PLAN)

Toshiya KOBAYASHI, Fumio HASEGAWA

Article type: Article
2004 Volume 19 Issue 1_2 Pages 94-97
Published: September 20, 2004
Released on J-STAGE: December 29, 2017

DOIhttps://doi.org/10.20801/jsrpim.19.1_2_94

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A preliminary study was performed on the effect of public policies for research promotion using data from the Ministry of Education and Science Technology Forecasts, a series of Delphi surveys on forecast experts conducted in an interval of five years. A comparison of the responses to the questions on "education and recruiting" and "expansion of R&D funding" in the 6th and 7th surveys for 37 topics in the field of information and communication suggested that the Second Phase of the Plan has been less successful in R&D funding than in expanding workforce. Similar comparisons should be made between the 8th and 9th surveys to evaluate the performance of the Third Phase of the Basic Plan.

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For the Third Phase of the Science and Technology Basic Plan(<Special Issue>PROSPECTS OF THE THIRD PHASE OF THE SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY BASIC PLAN)

Yoshimasa HAYASHI

Article type: Article
2004 Volume 19 Issue 1_2 Pages 98-101
Published: September 20, 2004
Released on J-STAGE: December 29, 2017

DOIhttps://doi.org/10.20801/jsrpim.19.1_2_98

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The first two phases of the Science and Technology Basic Plan has resulted in substantial improvements in R&D funding, prioritized research projects and S&T system reform. After reviewing major policy items in the Plan, along with his own activities, the author points out the importance of continued priorities in the national R&D investment based on a national strategy. He also presents his views on two important issues on the future S&T policy : further improvement of research evaluation schemes, and identification and prioritization of new promising research topics.

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University Evaluation for Enhancing Higher Education(<Special Issue>PROSPECTS OF THE THIRD PHASE OF THE SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY BASIC PLAN)

Yoko YOSHIMOTO

Article type: Article
2004 Volume 19 Issue 1_2 Pages 102-104
Published: September 20, 2004
Released on J-STAGE: December 29, 2017

DOIhttps://doi.org/10.20801/jsrpim.19.1_2_102

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The viewpoint of students has not been sufficiently integrated in the university evaluation system. Students' satisfaction and needs for the current academic environment were identified by a series of interviews. Analysis shows that students are generally not satisfied with the quality of teaching, and often frustrated by administrative and institutional inflexibleness. The patriarchic climate in Japanese universities was particularly criticized by graduate students. These results suggest a necessity to add new parameters to the university evaluation system.

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On the Science and Technology Basic Plans : Achievements and future problems(<Special Issue>PROSPECTS OF THE THIRD PHASE OF THE SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY BASIC PLAN)

Takeshi HIROMATSU

Article type: Article
2004 Volume 19 Issue 1_2 Pages 105-107
Published: September 20, 2004
Released on J-STAGE: December 29, 2017

DOIhttps://doi.org/10.20801/jsrpim.19.1_2_105

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The S&T Basic Plan has greatly improved financial and institutional conditions of R&D activities in Japan through its first phase. The purposes of the second phase have also been attained, if not fully. However, the Plan has not been successful in dealing with important issues : "establishment of communication channels between S&T specialists and the public" and "ethics and accountability of S&T activities". A survey by the Cabinet Office shows that, while admitting the necessity of S&T, the public is aware of the importance of mental aspects and quality of life, and wants to get more involved in policy-forming processes. This suggests that experts of humanities and social sciences should join in studies on the S&T policy.

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Problems in Building New Relationship between Science & Technology and Society(<Special Issue>PROSPECTS OF THE THIRD PHASE OF THE SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY BASIC PLAN)

Shinji OKAMOTO

Article type: Article
2004 Volume 19 Issue 1_2 Pages 108-109
Published: September 20, 2004
Released on J-STAGE: December 29, 2017

DOIhttps://doi.org/10.20801/jsrpim.19.1_2_108

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Two problems in establishing better relationship of science and technology with society are discussed. First, improved mutual communication between experts and general public is essential for social acceptance of new technologies. In fact, a government survey has indicated strong interest in and information needs on biotechnology-related issues among the public. Second, much confusion and ineffectiveness are seen in academia-industry collaboration environment, such as premature ventures run by academics or inappropriate administration of intellectual properties. An adequate system for evaluation of collaborative programs is needed to better the situation, as well as more consistent middle- and long-term S&T policy development.

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For a New Partnership of Science and Society : Science and democracy(<Special Issue>PROSPECTS OF THE THIRD PHASE OF THE SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY BASIC PLAN)

Yuko FUJIGAKI

Article type: Article
2004 Volume 19 Issue 1_2 Pages 110-111
Published: September 20, 2004
Released on J-STAGE: December 29, 2017

DOIhttps://doi.org/10.20801/jsrpim.19.1_2_110

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Discussions on science and technology and society in Japan have lacked three important viewpoints : S&T and democracy, public involvement, and interactive public understanding of science. This paper reviews these topics and their interrelationship to show their importance in today's situation where S&T issues may directly influence individuals' life. The author proposes their incorporation into the future governance schemes of science and technology.

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Need for a Total Viewpoint on Civilization(<Special Issue>PROSPECTS OF THE THIRD PHASE OF THE SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY BASIC PLAN)

Shinya ONO

Article type: Article
2004 Volume 19 Issue 1_2 Pages 112-113
Published: September 20, 2004
Released on J-STAGE: December 29, 2017

DOIhttps://doi.org/10.20801/jsrpim.19.1_2_112

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While science and technology have expanded the sphere of human life, we now see conflicts and confusion all over the world. Technology is unable to social or personal problems that are not susceptible to quantitative formulation. The typically occidental character of technology could be complemented by oriental thoughts. A meeting in this line was held in 2003 where policymakers and scholars from China, Korea and Japan discussed those problems.

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[title in Japanese]

Article type: Bibliography
2004 Volume 19 Issue 1_2 Pages 115-126
Published: September 20, 2004
Released on J-STAGE: December 29, 2017

DOIhttps://doi.org/10.20801/jsrpim.19.1_2_115

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