OPEN4UAS: Understanding, Adopting, and Sustaining Open Science in Universities of Applied Sciences
While Open Science (OS) is relevant to both universities and UASs, their institutional contexts differ. This project seeks to accelerate and strengthen OS adoption within UASs, producing transferable knowledge on motivations, incentives, and barriers across disciplines and institutions. Combining multiple data sources will support theory building on drivers and obstacles of OS adoption. By situating OS within practice-based research, the study will enrich the broader academic debate, which is now largely dominated by university-focused perspectives.
Objective
We aim to develop knowledge on mechanisms driving the shift towards Open Science (OS) at both institutional and individual levels in Dutch Universities of Applied Sciences (UASs).
Results
- Insights into Open Science at UASs: How researchers engage with OS, including key contextual factors and needs.
- Participatory design methods: Demonstrating co-design approaches for advancing OS practices.
- Drivers of OS engagement: Identifying motivations, incentives, and barriers across contexts.
- Recommendations for OS support: Evidence-based guidance to strengthen OS in institutions.
Education impact
The project will impact practice by directly informing and improving Open Science policies at UASs through participatory design, fostering co-ownership and sustainable behavioural change. By identifying effective interventions and aligning incentives with support structures, it enables more targeted and legitimate policies. Practical tools, guidelines, and openly shared outputs will support institutions in implementation. Increased Open Science engagement will enhance access to applied knowledge, benefiting practitioners and society more broadly.
