Peer Review

• What is a peer review?

  It is a vetting process by experts.
• What happens to research before publication?

  It is vetted by several experts.
• Who conducts the peer review?

  Unpaid peers in the field.
• What is the purpose of peer review?

  To validate quality and relevance of research.
• What are the main purposes of peer review?

  1. Validate quality and relevance of research.
  2. Suggest amendments or improvements.
  3. Allocate future research funding.
• What is open review?

  No anonymity for researchers or reviewers.
• What is a benefit of open review?

  Reduces personal comments and encourages honesty.
• What is a drawback of open review?

  Reviewers may fear backlash for honesty.
• What is double blind review?

  Complete anonymity for both parties.
• What is a benefit of double blind review?

  Avoids culture/gender bias by reviewers.
• What is a drawback of double blind review?

  Researchers may be identified by style.
• What is single blind review?

  Reviewers are anonymous, researchers are known.
• What is a benefit of single blind review?

  Reviewers can be honest in feedback.
• What is a drawback of single blind review?

  Reviewers might have prejudice against researchers.
• What are the strengths and weaknesses of peer review?

  Strengths:

  • Anonymity encourages honest feedback.
  • Validates research quality.

  
  

  Weaknesses:

  • Difficulty finding appropriate experts.
  • Publication bias towards positive results.
  • Trust issues if flawed studies are published.
• What is publication bias?

  Journals prefer to publish positive results.
• Why do journals exhibit publication bias?

  To enhance their standing and relevance.
• Who was Sir Cyril Burt?

  A researcher criticized for fraudulent results.
• What happens if a study is found problematic after publication?

  Trust in scientific data decreases.
• What was the issue with Burt's study on twins?

  Results were suspiciously consistent and fabricated.
• How did Burt's study impact social policy?

  It shaped policies based on "intelligence".