RSP - OA

What is 'Open Research'?

'Open Research' refers to the practice of openness throughout the research process, in terms of both how research is performed and knowledge is shared. Sometimes the term 'Open Science' has been used interchangeably, but 'Open Research' operates as a more holistic and inclusive term, including Social Scientists and Arts and Humanities researchers with those in the Physical or Biomedical Sciences.

Benefits of Open Research include:

• Transparency of research methods ensures good ethical practice in terms of data collection, with results which can be verified
• Research findings and methods can be more easily reproduced, which supports the rigour of research findings
• Timely dissemination of research findings, for instance through the use of preprint servers and 'Publish, then Review' methods
• Can facilitate more collaborative working methods, Open Research intersects with initiatives like Citizen Science and makes it easier to identify potential research partners

Open Research practices can take on various forms including preregistration of research studies, 'Open Peer Review', and Open Access publication.