The Brazilian science system is a direct result of decades of consistent public policy connecting research and education in ways that are unprecedented in the world. As a unique outcome, most of... Show moreThe Brazilian science system is a direct result of decades of consistent public policy connecting research and education in ways that are unprecedented in the world. As a unique outcome, most of the science conducted in Brazil takes place within a National System of Graduate Education (SNPG), mainly installed in the country's universities. The present study seeks to provide a comprehensive understanding of the system's conception, investigating conjunctures and policy decisions shaping its evolution. Furthermore, the paper will also provide a panorama of the SNPG today: how large is the system; how is it organised and distributed across the country; what are the characteristics of the faculty and student body, and more. The results of this study are essential for Brazilian academics and policymakers, but the unique approach to science and highlevel education in Brazil can serve as an inspiration for the international community, both from its successes and failures. Show less
The Brazilian System of Graduate Courses counts with two different modalities of programs: academic and professional. The latter one was authorized by the Brazilian Ministry of Education in 1998,... Show moreThe Brazilian System of Graduate Courses counts with two different modalities of programs: academic and professional. The latter one was authorized by the Brazilian Ministry of Education in 1998, at first only for master’s courses. The idea to start this new modality solely on the first level was to allow the academic community to acquire the necessary experience with such courses, since they should focus on bringing scientific methodology to the productive sector, with problem-solving as one of its primary goals. Almost 20 years after they were first authorized, there are already 782 of these programs in Brazil, almost 20% of the total number of master’s courses currently active. Considering this development, in 2017 the Ministry of Education authorized the expansion of the new modality for the doctoral level as well, and 90 proposals for such courses have already been sent to CAPES, the agency in charge for the accreditation and evaluation of every graduate course in the country. Since the opening of the new professional doctorates is oncoming, the goal of this research is to investigate if the different approach expected from such courses has been materialized in the scientific production from professional master’s courses, when compared to that originated from the academic ones. Show less
Brandão, A.; Villela, A.; Oliveira, C.; Brasil, A.; Santos, A. 2018