peer review

Question 1

peer review

Answer 1

the practice of using independent experts to assess quality and validity of scientific research and academic reports

Question 2

the process of peer review

Answer 2

1. editor sends to other experts, generally unpaid, in the field who critically appraise all aspects of the study then return it with their recs as to whether the work is of acceptable quality
2. if not, researchers revise their work and re-submit their paper
3. this ensures high standards within psychological research is maintained.
4. most researchers aim to publish their findings in prestigious scientific journals. there is an agreed format for the way in which work is presented
5. having ur study publish means the scientific community has given it a seal of approval

Question 3

aims of peer review

Answer 3

allocate research funding

validate the quality and relevance of the research - prevents incorrect research entering the public domain

too suggest amendments and improvements

Question 4

the first issue of peer review - resistant to change

Answer 4

peer review can act to maintain the status quo and prevent revolutionary research being published. - science is very conservative - resistant to large changes in opinion (paradigm shift)

if the results of a study do not fit with the accepted knowledge, it can be rejected

Question 5

the second issue of peer review - bias

Answer 5

1. objectivity - reviewer may strongly support an opposing view - less likely to provide unbiased opinion of the work.
   also, more likely to be more favourable to someone within their social circle
2. institution bias - research from prestigious universities are favoured
3. gender bias - male researchers are favoured

Question 6

the third issue with peer review - ‘file drawer’ problem

Answer 6

there’s a bias towards those studies with positive results e.g. supporting the hypothesis.

negative findings are important to achieve a balanced view of research