When Reading a Research Article, How Do You Assess Its

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The Answer is How was the report reviewed prior to its publication or release? Articles published in academic journals go through a very rigorous review process, usually involving careful criticism and revision. Top "refereed" journals may accept only 10% of submitted articles, so they can be very selective. Dissertations go through a lengthy process of criticism and revision by a few members of the dissertation writer's home institution. A report released directly by a research organization is likely to have had only a limited review, although some research organizations maintain a rigorous internal review process. Papers presented at professional meetings may have had little prior review. Needless to say, more confidence can be placed in research results that have been subject to a more rigorous review; What is the author's reputation? Reports by an author or team of authors who have published other work on the research question should be given somewhat greater credibility at the outset; Who funded and sponsored the research? Major federal funding agencies and private foundations fund only research proposals that have been evaluated carefully and ranked highly by a panel of experts.

When Reading a Research Article, How Do You Assess Its

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