Measurement Indicators for Social Appropriation of Knowledge in Colombia: Moving Beyond Product-Based Evaluation toward Relational Science–Society Engagement

Abstract

Social Appropriation of Knowledge (SAK) has become a central idea in Colombian science policy, which focuses on participatory, dialogical, and co-production processes between scientific and non-scientific actors. Although it is becoming increasingly important, the assessment of SAK is still largely based on traditional metrics of output, like publications, citations, and dissemination, which do not sufficiently reflect the relational and societal aspects of science–society engagement. The study proposes a conceptual framework and a set of measuring indicators for SAK in Colombia by integrating Science and Technology Studies (STS), Colombian science policy (Minciencias, 2021), the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB), and the Ambassador Program Engagement model. A qualitative documentary analysis of policy and theoretical literature was conducted to identify recurring constructs shaping SAK. The findings indicate that SAK is seen as a relational and process-oriented concept that involves behavioural intention, institutional enabling, and community engagement during the research cycle. These dimensions are operationalised using a staged approach that includes three main stages, namely pre-research, implementation, and post-research. The analysis informed the creation of a structured indicator framework evaluating behavioural, institutional, and relational aspects of SAK. The study contributes to the development of the Public Understanding of Science scholarship by providing an alternative to the traditional product-based research assessment systems and by advancing a process-oriented approach to assessing science–society relations.