What is meaningful research and how should we measure it?

Sven Helmer (), David B. Blumenthal () and Kathrin Paschen ()
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Sven Helmer: University of Zurich
David B. Blumenthal: Technical University of Munich
Kathrin Paschen: Nephometrics GmbH

Scientometrics, 2020, vol. 125, issue 1, No 7, 153-169

Abstract: Abstract We discuss the trend towards using quantitative metrics for evaluating research. We claim that, rather than promoting meaningful research, purely metric-based research evaluation schemes potentially lead to a dystopian academic reality, leaving no space for creativity and intellectual initiative. After sketching what the future could look like if quantitative metrics are allowed to proliferate, we provide a more detailed discussion on why research is so difficult to evaluate and outline approaches for avoiding such a situation. In particular, we characterize meaningful research as an essentially contested concept and argue that quantitative metrics should always be accompanied by operationalized instructions for their proper use and continuously evaluated via feedback loops. Additionally, we analyze a dataset containing information about computer science publications and their citation history and indicate how quantitative metrics could potentially be calibrated via alternative evaluation methods such as test of time awards. Finally, we argue that, instead of over-relying on indicators, research environments should primarily be based on trust and personal responsibility.

Keywords: Research evaluation; Quantitative metrics; Essentially contested concepts (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2020
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Citations: View citations in EconPapers (4)

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DOI: 10.1007/s11192-020-03649-5

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