Social Innovations in Educational Sciences: Analysis of Current Research and Policy Documents

Abstract

The Guidelines for Science, Technology Development and Innovation for 2021–2027 developed by the Ministry of Education and Science of Latvia focus on promoting research excellence and increasing the social and economic value of research. Considering the previously mentioned, higher education institutions’ goal is not only the transfer of knowledge but also the creation of economic and social value, which communicates to society through learning and research results. Social innovation as a driver of social change promotes societal openness and active participation in socio-economic processes. The introduction of new forms of social innovation as Responsible Research and Innovations (RRI) can bridge the gap between science and societal needs by engaging in social debate and policy decisions in society and fostering collaboration between scientists from different sectors. The study aims to analyze Social Innovation’s essence and the academic and administrative definitions and dimensions of the Responsible Research and Innovation approach. In order to achieve the aim of the study, a systematic literature analysis was performed. The study reveals the main features of Social Innovation and the perspective of Responsible Research and Innovation implementation in higher education in the institutional and processual dimensions.