RM - The peer review Flashcards
What is the peer review?
When all aspects of an investigation are scrutinised by a group of usually 2 to 3 experts in the particular field. They should conduct an objective review and be unknown to the author.
Why are peer reviews carried out?
Findings of a research are usually published in a journal. Before this research, can be made available it needs to be checked to make sure there are no major errors or flaws.
What are the aims of the peer review?
- To allocate research funding - can also take place to decide whether or not to give a project funding.
- To validate the quality and relevance of research - all elements assessed for quality and accuracy
- To suggest amendments or improvements - may suggest minor revisions or may conclude it is inappropriate to publish and should be withdraw.
What issue is there of w/ anonymity in the peer review?
Some reviewers may use anonymity as a criticising rival researchers. This is made more likely by the fact they are all in direct competition for the limited funding.
Because of this some journals use open reviewing where the name is made public.
What issue is there w/ publication bias?
Editors tend to want to publish ‘headline-grabbing’ findings to increase the credibility and circulation of their publication. Also prefer to publish positive results.
Could mean research that doesn’t meet this criteria is ignored. Creates a false impression of the current state of psychology.
What is the issue of burying ground-breaking research?
May suppress opposition in mainstream theories wishing to maintain a status quo within particular scientific fields. Reviewers especially critical of research that contradicts their own views and favourable towards research supporting their views.
Established psychologists more likely to review work so findings that match current opinion more likely to be passed than those that oppose.
May slow down rate of change within a particular scientific discipline.
