Peer review

• Process of subjecting a piece of research to independent scrutiny by other psychologists working in a similar field who consider the research in terms of its validity, significance and originality.
• We carry out peer review due to the scandal of 11+ and other example of dishonesty and practise.
• Begins when a research paper submitted to a journal is considered to be worthy of publication. The editor sends this to other experts which are usually unpaid in the field who critically appraise all aspects of study and return ut with their recommendations of wether work is of acceptable quality
• Researchers may have to revise their work and resubmit their paper. This ensures that high standards are maintained.
• PR is in touch with new research and scientific developments.

  Difficult to spot every mistake – so PR reduces mistakes and possible weaknesses. Prevents irrelevant findings unwarranted claims and unacceptable interpretations from

  being published
• Peer Review judges the quality and significance of the research in a wider context . This process ensures that published research can be taken seriously because it has been independently scrutinised by fellow researchers. Peer Review is also how new knowledge is validated.
• Some other reasons for peer review is that it ensures funding is targeted in the right places and that quality work is published. Helps to asses research rating of University departments.
• Problems

  Not necessarily objective

  Institution bias - most prestigious universities are favoured

  Gender Bias - males work is published more often than females

  Publication bias - positive results can be published more.