Peer Review

Question 1

What is meant by peer review?

Answer 1

The assessment of scientific work by others who are specialists in the same field, this ensures research is high quality

Question 2

What is the purpose of peer review (3 purposes)?

Answer 2

1. To allocate research funding -> to decide whether or not to award funding for a research project
2. To validate the quality/ relevance of research
3. To suggest amendments/ improvements-> may suggest minor revision to the work to improve the report

Question 3

What is a strength of peer review?

Answer 3

They are typically anonymous, this means that it is more likely that an honest appraisal is produced (reduced bias)

Question 4

What are the weaknesses of peer review?

Answer 4

Findings that agree with current opinions are more likely to be passed, due to anonymity a minority of reviewers may criticise rival researchers