Methodological Foundations in Comparative Studies of Science, Technology and Innovation Policy in Iran

The comparative study is considered as one of the most common and widely used methods in social science research, and the adoption of this research method has been growing in recent years. On the other hand, science, technology, and innovation policy-making in different countries (both developed and developing countries) have faced a lot of dynamics. This has prompted policy researchers to adopt a comparative approach, while examining successful and unsuccessful international experiences, to provide recommendations for better formulation of national policies. But this question is raised, what are the foundations and principles of comparative studies, and to what extent have they been complied with in science, technology, and innovation policy studies in Iran? In this research, by using related keywords and searching in selected scientific journals, we evaluated 82 Persian language comparative research related to science, technology and innovation policy. In general, comparative studies are based on four main foundations, including sampling considerations, construct equivalence, analysis approach (variable or case orientation), and issues of causality. Our findings show that most of the evaluated works were not faithful to the main foundations of comparative studies, the main reason for which is often the researchers' lack of familiarity and sufficient mastery of the methodological issues of comparative studies. As a result, considering the importance of the findings of this type of research for policymakers, failure to observe its principles on behalf of researchers can cause problems in the design and implementation of policies.