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Research Codes
The Australian and New Zealand Standard Research Classification (ANZSRC) is a set of three classifications developed for use in the measurement and analysis of research and experimental development (R&D) statistics in Australia and New Zealand. The three classifications are: Fields of Research (FoR); Socio-Economic Objectives (SEO); and Type of Activity (ToA).
Fields of Research (FOR) codes
This classification allows research activity to be categorised according to the field of research. In this respect, it is the methodology used in the research that is being considered.
Please refer to the Australian Bureau of Statistics or Stats NZ websites for a list of current FOR codes:
- Australian Bureau of Statistics (opens in a new window)
- Stats NZ (opens in a new window)
Socio-Economic Objective (SEO) codes
This classification allows research to be categorised according to the purpose or outcome of the research as perceived by the data provider (researcher). It consists of discrete economic, social, technological or scientific domains for identifying the principal purposes of the research. The attributes applied to the design of the SEO classification comprise a combination of processes, products, health, education and other social and environmental aspects of particular interest.
Please refer to the Australian Bureau of Statistics or Stats NZ websites for a list of current SEO codes:
- Australian Bureau of Statistics (opens in a new window)
- Stats NZ (opens in a new window)
Types of activity
There are four types of activity applicable to research and development which are recognised by the Australian Standard Research Classifications.
Pure basic research
Pure basic research activity is experimental and theoretical work undertaken to acquire new knowledge without looking for long term benefits other than the advancement of knowledge.
Strategic basic research
Strategic basic research activity is experimental and theoretical work undertaken to acquire new knowledge directed into specified broad areas in the expectation of useful discoveries. It provides the broad base of knowledge necessary for the solution of recognised practical problems.
Applied research
Applied research activity is original work undertaken primarily to acquire new knowledge with a specific application in view. It is undertaken either to determine possible uses for the findings of basic research or to determine new ways of achieving some specific and predetermined objectives.
Experimental development
Experimental development activity is systematic work, using existing knowledge gained from research or practical experience, that is directed to producing new materials, products or devices, to installing new processes, systems and services, or to improving substantially those already produced or installed.
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