Understanding evidence use within education policy: a policy narrative perspective. (10th May 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Rickinson, Mark; Walsh, Lucas; de Bruin, Kate; Hall, Matthew
• Is Part Of: Evidence & policy. Volume 15:Number 2(2019)
• Page Start: 235
• Page End: 252
• Publication Date: 2019-05-10
• Subjects: policy narrative -- evidence use -- policy -- education; Policy sciences -- Periodicals; Social policy -- Research -- Periodicals; Public welfare -- Research -- Periodicals; Social service -- Decision making -- Periodicals; 320.6
• DOI: 10.1332/174426418X15172393826277
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1744-2648

Abstract

Abstract : There are growing calls for improved understandings of the role of evidence within policy development. There is long-standing recognition of the role of narratives and narrative processes in public policy. The aim of this paper is to explore the potential of policy narratives as a way to make sense of evidence use in policy. Drawing on an exploratory study of evidence use by Australian education policymakers, we describe how policy narratives emerged as a recurring theme and repeated reference point. Building on these findings, we argue that policy narratives deserve greater attention and discussion within the field of evidence use.