Prof. Sunil Goyal: Embracing Open Research for Transparency and Reproducibility in Academia
Research often lacks complete transparency and reproducibility. Poor research practices are increasingly being recognized publicly, leading to diminished trust in the academic sector. Open Research involves conducting research with full transparency, encompassing the presentation of designs, methods, and results. Such practices enhance the quality and integrity of research, make it reusable by others, and ensure cost efficiency. They also foster public trust in research and safeguard against misconduct.
However, adopting Open Research is not without challenges, especially with diverse demands and practical issues. For instance, how many research outputs from your institution share supporting data and code? Are your researchers equipped to identify and avoid questionable research practices?
Achieving greater transparency requires a long-term cultural shift. Institutions can take several initiatives to foster a more accessible, transparent, and reproducible research culture.
Key Steps for Promoting Open Research
Join or Establish National Reproducibility Networks
Regional networks like the Swadeshi Research Institute (SRI), Indore Chapter, are expanding research communities by promoting rigorous research practices through training, research improvement activities, and the dissemination of best practices.
Form Open Research Working Groups
These groups should be led by a senior Open Research champion and supported by the institution’s chairperson or equivalent authority. They will represent professional services and the research community within the institution.
Develop a Strategic Work Plan
A work plan with measurable objectives and a defined timeline can provide strategic direction to institutional efforts.
Publish an Open Research Statement
Many Indian institutions have committed to the principles and objectives of Open Research. Such statements clarify institutional goals and expectations for researchers.
Host Open Research Competitions
Open Research awards can celebrate good practices and encourage researchers to value and recognize their open efforts.
Build an Open Research Champion Network
Institutions can prepare collaborators within the research community to lead by example, foster dialogue, and disseminate knowledge and skills within local networks.
Develop Support for Research Software Engineering
Programming is widely used in research, but many researchers lack formal training in software use. Institutions can provide the necessary support and training.
Integrate Open Research Criteria in Recruitment, Promotion, and Evaluation
Academic systems must ensure that Open Research is a core component of their recruitment, promotion, and evaluation processes.
Conclusion
These measures will not bring immediate change, but sustained strategic actions by institutions can significantly enhance research culture, improving both quality and integrity.
Prof. Sunil Goyal
(Head, Department of Higher Education, Government of Madhya Pradesh, and Honorary President, Swadeshi Research Institute, Indore Chapter)
#NEP2020 #OpenResearch #HigherEducation #ResearchCulture #Innovation
