How to balance impact and quality of research in the REF?

Here’s what to consider

The REF (Research Excellence Framework) is a research assessment framework that simultaneously considers the quality of research and its impact on society, the economy and other areas. To effectively balance these two aspects, it is crucial to understand the criteria and expectations for both.

1. Understand the assessment criteria

The first step is to understand how the quality and impact of research are assessed in the REF. Research quality is assessed by expert panels on four elements: originality, significance, reliability and contribution to the field. Research impact is assessed through case studies that show how research has impacted the economy, society, culture, environment, health or public policy. The REF documentation provides detailed definitions, examples and standards for each of these elements. It is worth familiarising yourself with the relevant guidelines for your discipline and unit of assessment.

2. Focus on research quality

To ensure high-quality research, attention should be paid to its originality, significance, and methodological integrity. In practice, this means designing studies that not only provide new, valuable information, but are also well-documented and conducted according to rigorous research standards.

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3. Build impact case studies

To demonstrate the impact of your research, it is important to develop case studies that show how the research has had an impact. An example would be a study related to sustainability in business, where the research may have an impact on changes in corporate policies regarding sustainable resource use. It should be clearly shown how the research has influenced changes in practices and decisions outside of academia.

For example, if your research explores the EBMnt model, highlight how implementing evidence into decision-making processes increases organizational effectiveness and helps adapt to changing market conditions.

4. Combine quality and impact

The key to success is the integration of quality and impact. Good research is research that not only contributes new, valuable information to its field, but also has a practical, visible impact on the world outside the university. Engage in interdisciplinary collaborations that increase the chance of broad impact while maintaining high research standards.

5. A culture of reflection and continuous improvement

It is also important to build a culture of reflection among researchers, enabling them to share experiences, discuss challenges and successes, and promote continuous improvement in their research. Regular training and resources for researchers can help them communicate their research more effectively and better align it with the requirements of the REF.

Summary

Balancing the impact and quality of research in the REF requires a deliberate strategy. Understanding the evaluation criteria, investing in high-quality research, and being able to communicate its impact on the wider community are key elements of success in the research evaluation process.

It's worth watching

https://impact.ref.ac.uk/casestudies/Search1.aspx

Tematyka: REF