The Scientific Process And Peer Review

Question 1

What is peer review

Answer 1

Other researchers assessing the quality of research and as part of the scientific process

Question 2

Why is the peer review used

Answer 2

To ensure allocation of research funding is spent on high-quality research
To ensure research and academic journals and books does not have incorrect data being published
Research rating for university departments as determined by REF peer review
Online journals e.g. Philips policed by wisdom of crowds

Question 3

Evaluate peer review

Answer 3

Find an expert - aren’t suitable peers
Anonymity- may help bury rivals research
Publication bias- journals prefer to publish positive results
Status quo- preference against research that challenges accepted theories
Fraudulent research – remains in public domain