‘Use of current best evidence’: Promises and illusions, limitations and contradictions in the triangle of research, policy and practice

Abstract

This paper explores the methodological and epistemological implications of the relationships between R&D, policy and practice. The proposals towards ‘evidence-based policy and practice’ are analysed with respect to this triangle from three angles: (1) meaning; (2) production; and (3) use of evidence. A comprehensive model of the research cycle, and its relationship to the triangle of research, policy and practice serves as conceptual framework.The basic problems of ‘evidence-based policy and practice’ are demonstrated through empirical cases: (1) the contested ‘evidence’ regarding achievement standards; (2) the state of the production of evidence in Austria; and (3) the use of evidence in qualifications framework policies. ‘Evidence based policy’, unlike ‘evidence-based practice’, turns out to be a ‘mission impossible’. Evidence-based practice might be more promising, but if it depends on a change in policy and governance, it is itself confronted with the problems of evidence-based policy.