Project
Understanding researcher views on the UK’s national assessment programme, REF 2021
Nov 24, 2021
RAND Europe, together with the University of Cardiff and the University of Sheffield, conducted a real-time evaluation of the Research Excellence Framework. The study assessed attitudes, perspectives and behaviours towards REF 2021 across the sector; and explored how REF policies and changes are embedded in the way submissions are prepared and delivered. The study aims to provide clarity and perspective to inform future rounds of the REF.
The Real-Time REF Review
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The Research Excellence Framework (REF) is an evaluation system for assessing the quality of research in UK higher education institutions (HEIs). Despite its importance in shaping research cultures, there is little systematic evidence about perceptions and attitudes towards the REF across the sector, and which aspects are viewed favourably or unfavourably. Research England, on behalf of the four UK higher education funding bodies, commissioned RAND Europe, together with the University of Cardiff and the University of Sheffield, to conduct a real-time evaluation of attitudes and perspectives of the sector towards REF 2021. The specific objectives of this study are to: (1) assess attitudes, perspectives and behaviours towards REF 2021 across the sector; (2) explore how REF policies and changes are embedded in the way submissions are prepared and delivered; and (3) expand and build on the findings of a pilot study conducted in 2018. By conducting the review in real time, alongside preparations for the exercise, the study aims to help accelerate the process of learning and revision post-REF 2021 and provide more clarity and perspective on the future of the REF to institutions at an early stage for the next round of assessment. The study also aims to provide an early contribution to the evidence base in anticipation of a potential reform of the REF that was requested by the UK government.
Chapter One
Introduction
Chapter Two
The influence of the REF on researchers and the research community
Chapter Three
Changes to the REF for 2021 and preparations for assessment
Chapter Four
General attitudes towards the REF
Chapter Five
Looking to the future of the REF
Chapter Six
Concluding thoughts
Annex A
Overview of methodological approach
Annex B
National survey questionnaire
Annex C
Longitudinal survey questionnaire
Annex D
Interview protocol: Institutional leadership
Annex E
Focus group protocol: Research Managers
Annex F
Focus group protocol: Academics
Annex G
NVivo code book for analysing qualitative research
Annex H
List of recommendations from the Stern Review
The research described in this report was commissioned by Research England and conducted by RAND Europe.
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