Reforming the Research and Science System for Māori Innovation practice theory for policy implementation

Abstract

Te Ara Paerangi proposes multi-year reforms to New Zealand’s research, science and innovation system to ‘make a greater impact on New Zealand’s productivity and wellbeing’. One objective is to ‘embed Te Tiriti’ and ‘advance Māori aspirations in the RSI system’. What does this mean in practice? Using a three-element practice theory framework, we assess the Science for Technological Innovation National Science Challenge’s approach to advancing Māori-led or -partnered science and innovation. Our analysis suggests that such frameworks provide a useful lens for assessing how policy can move to practical implementation, particularly to advance Māori innovation aspirations.