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Improving the reproducibility of findings by updating research methodology

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  • Joseph Klein

    (Bar-Ilan University)

Abstract

The literature discusses causes of low reproducibility of scientific publications. Our article adds another main cause—uncritical adherence to accepted research procedures. This is evident in: (1) anachronistically requiring researchers to base themselves on theoretical background even if the studies cited were not tested for reproducibility; (2) conducting studies suffering from a novelty effect bias; (3) forcing researchers who use data mining methods and field-based theory, with no preliminary theoretical rationale, to present a theoretical background that allegedly guided their work—as a precondition for publication of their findings. It is possible to increase research validity in relation to the above problems by the following means: (1) Conducting a longitudinal study on the same participants and only on them; (2) Trying to shorten the time period between laboratory experiments and those on humans, based on cost–benefit considerations, anchored in ethical norms; (3) Reporting the theoretical background in a causal modular format; (4) Giving incentives to those who meet the above criteria while moderating the pressure for fast output.

Suggested Citation

  • Joseph Klein, 2022. "Improving the reproducibility of findings by updating research methodology," Quality & Quantity: International Journal of Methodology, Springer, vol. 56(3), pages 1597-1609, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:qualqt:v:56:y:2022:i:3:d:10.1007_s11135-021-01196-6
    DOI: 10.1007/s11135-021-01196-6
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    References listed on IDEAS

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