UK Psychology PhD Researchers' Knowledge, Perceptions, and Experiences of Open Science

Madeleine Pownall, Jenny Terry, Elizabeth Collins, Martina Sladekova, and Abigail Jones

Abstract: To advance the goals and values of open science, it is vital that the next generation of researchers, i.e. PhD researchers, are supported in adopting open science practices. However, to date, there is no comprehensive understanding of psychology PhD researchers’ knowledge, perceptions, and experiences with open science, in a UK context. The present study used a pre-registered mixed-methods design to fill this gap in the literature, by surveying psychology PhD students in the UK (n = 196) on their experiences with open science, perceptions of open science, and knowledge of open science tools and practices. Our findings demonstrate that while attitudes towards questionable research practices were consistent, knowledge and perceptions of open science tools and practices varied considerably across PhD researchers. In particular, supervisory support and guidance with open science practices were mixed across participants. Perceived benefits to open science engagement included employability, researcher credibility, sharing learning and resources, building collaboration and relationships, and wider dissemination of work. Perceived barriers included lack of time, financial reasons, fear of scooping, fear of judgement or criticism, and incompatibility with research paradigms (e.g., qualitative research). Implications for policy, including British Psychological Society training and support, are discussed.

Published article (open access): https://doi.org/10.1080/23311908.2023.2248765 

Postprint: https://psyarxiv.com/vypkb/ 

Preregistration, data, & materials: https://osf.io/5x3z9/