Peer review Flashcards
Explain what is meant by the term ‘peer review’. (2 marks)
The assessment of scientific work by others who are specialists in the same field to ensure that any research intended for publication is of high quality. These experts should be objective and unknown to the researcher.
Outline two aims of peer review in psychological research. (4 marks)
One aim of peer review in psychological research is to allocate research funding to researchers. Through the assessment of research, we can establish which projects are worthwhile to allocate funding to.
A second aim of peer review in psychological research is to validate the quality and the relevance of the research. All elements of methodology are assessed for their validity and to determine if the findings are relevant today.
A third aim of peer review is to make any necessary amendments. This can improve the quality of the research, or in certain cases the research may be rejected.
Briefly discuss the use of peer review in the scientific process. (6 marks)
A strength of using peer review in psychological research is that it protects the quality of published research. This is because through the use of it, it minimises possibility of fraudulent research and means published research is of the highest quality, preserving the reputation of psychology as a science.
A weakness of using peer review in psychological research is that it may lead to the burying of ground-breaking research. The peer review process may suppress opposition to mainstream theories so findings that ‘chime’ with current opinion are more likely to be passed, slowing down the rate of psychological change.
