With the introduction of new terms such as “fake news” and “alternative facts,” one area of interest deserving more attention is “fake research.” Differentiating between “good” and “bad” research is critical—but how can we differentiate good from bad, or fake from real?
A newly released report from the Institute for Public Relations outlines five methods for deciphering the quality of research we conduct, review, rely on, and share.
“We’ve seen a rise in research, especially through clickbait on digital media that’s widely shared and touted as fact, but is based on bad science or poor methodology,” said Dr. Sarab Kochhar, IPR director of research and author of the report, in a news release. “This guide will help communication practitioners become smarter consumers of research and help them use research in a responsible way.”
The report helps practitioners critically assess and analyze research as well as determine the extent to which it is generalizable, unbiased, transparent, objective, and ethical.
To help practitioners become stronger researchers, IPR also offers an IPR Research Bootcamp, a one-day, step-by-step training on how to conduct and assess research, from planning to conducting to evaluation. Those interested in hosting or attending the IPR Research Bootcamp can contact Dr. Kochhar.
