Submission to the Australian Research Council for the Public Consultation into ERA & EI

Abstract

This is a submission to the Australian Research Council for the Public Consultation into ERA & EI and is putting a position forward that relates to several specific Questions: Q3.2 The ERA objectives are appropriate for meeting the future needs of its stakeholders. Q3.19 The volume and activity indicators are still relevant to ERA. Q3.20 The publishing profile indicator is still relevant to ERA. Q3.24 Noting that 90% of units of evaluation assessed in ERA 2018 are now at or above world standard, does the rating scale need to be modified to identify excellence? This submission puts forward the position that * measuring ‘excellence’ can cause poor research practice, but assessments offer an opportunity for positive change. * It is essential that any research assessment system must consider the potential effects on researcher and institutional behaviour it may generate. * There is a serious global issue of a reduction of trust in science. * Australia needs to consider how research integrity can be addressed, and adoption of open research practices offers a clear path. * The ERA assessment process can be leveraged to encourage consistent open practices within Australian research.