The IST gears its activities to the needs of
the Flemish Parliament and follows thematically the current scientific and
technological trends, which are relevant for Flanders.
The Institute carries out regularly »trend
watches«, to make an inventory of the current trends in the development of
science and technology. Especially themes with a clear societal impact on
Flemish areas of responsibility are taken into consideration. The trend watch
inventory is subsequently fine-tuned in consultation with the other European TA
institutions (the EPTA network), with the Flemish scientific and technological
players, and with the responsible commissions within the Flemish Parliament. On
this basis, the Institute defines its yearly working programme. Since its
foundation, the Institute has dealt with quite a variety of issues, from »biotechnology«,
through »mobility and use of energy« to »cyber bullying« and »nanotechnology«.
Accordingly a broad range of methods and approaches is used. For certain
issues, only a short, explorative analysis is adequate and sufficient. Others
require in-depth research, including extensive participation of stakeholders
and public.
Chapter Finding Topics - all countries
© EPTA, version 20 Oct 2012; provided by ITA |