Dimensions and Common Components of Applied Research Policy Worldwide

Abstract

This study aimed to identify and explain the common dimensions and components of applied research policy worldwide. This applied study employed an exploratory orientation and a descriptive-survey design. The statistical population consisted of 1,500 academic staff members at the National University of Human Sciences in Lebanon. Using Cochran’s formula, 306 participants were selected through gender-based stratified random sampling. Data were collected through library and field methods using a researcher-developed 45-item questionnaire rated on a five-point Likert scale. Convergent and discriminant validity were supported by average variance extracted values exceeding 0.50 and by the square roots of the AVE values being greater than the inter-construct correlations. Internal consistency was also confirmed, as Cronbach’s alpha coefficients for all dimensions and components exceeded 0.70. The data were analyzed using first- and second-order exploratory factor analyses in SPSS. The first-order exploratory factor analysis produced a Kaiser–Meyer–Olkin value of 0.735, while Bartlett’s test of sphericity was statistically significant (χ²=4389.776, df=990, p<0.001), confirming the suitability of the correlation matrix for factor analysis. All factor loadings exceeded 0.40, and no item was removed. Thirteen components were extracted, accounting for 61.443% of the total variance. In the second-order analysis, the KMO value was 0.791 and Bartlett’s test was significant (χ²=896.738, df=78, p<0.001). Six higher-order dimensions were identified: strategic direction and research prioritization; research governance, policies, and management; networking, interactions, and internationalization; research quality, processes, and standards; evaluation, feedback, and improvement of research policies; and researcher empowerment, motivation, and utilization of results. Together, these dimensions explained 71.002% of the total variance. Effective applied research policy requires an integrated framework combining strategic priorities, transparent governance, appropriate resource allocation, scientific networking, quality assurance, continuous evaluation, and researcher empowerment. The identified framework may support universities and research institutions in designing, revising, and evaluating policies intended to increase the practical and societal impact of research.