The role of peer review

• The aim of science is to produce a body Of knowledge based on the results of research
• In addition to carrying out the research what matters is how this knowledge is communicated within the scientific community, and to the wider public
• In psychology, research findings are publicised through conferences, textbooks but most often via academic journals
• Peer review involves all aspects of the written investigation being scrutinised by a small group of people usually two or three experts (peers) in that particular field
• These experts should conduct an objective review and be unknown to the author or researcher