3.1b Scientific literature and communication

Question 1

Importance of publications

Answer 1

Publication of methods, data, analysis and conclusions in scientific reports so that others are able to repeat an experiment.

Question 2

Sharing of scientific findings

Answer 2

Common methods of sharing original scientific findings include seminars, talks and posters at conferences, and publishing in academic journals.

Question 3

Peer review

Answer 3

Peer review and critical evaluation is very important, by specialists with expertise in the relevant field.

Most scientific publications use peer review. The specialists with expertise in the relevant field assess the scientific quality of a submitted manuscript and make recommendations regarding its suitability for publication.

Question 4

Review articles

Answer 4

Review articles, which summarise current knowledge and recent findings in a particular field.

Question 5

Critical evaluation

Answer 5

Critical evaluation of science coverage in the wider media, increasing the public understanding of science, and the issue of misrepresentation of science.