New book for students explores how open science practices can reform the 'replication crisis' in psychology

New book for students explores how open science practices can reform the 'replication crisis' in psychology

May 18, 20233 min read



A new book, A Student’s Guide to Open Science: Using the Replication Crisis to Reform Psychology, has been published, providing students and researchers with a comprehensive guide to open science practices and how their implementation can enhance research transparency and rigour.


In the book, Dr Charlotte Pennington who is a lecturer in psychology at Aston University, explores the "replication crisis" in psychology, which refers to the difficulties in reproducing research results to test the robustness of findings. Through the book, students will gain an understanding of the origins and drivers of the crisis and learn how open science practices can transform research practice, enhance research transparency, and improve replication and reproducibility.


The book contains various features, including an overview of landmark events that will mark the history of the replication crisis in the years to come, case studies of classic psychological studies undergoing replication, ‘test yourself’ activities to reinforce learning of key concepts, and top tips for adopting open science practices. It also includes useful illustrations to aid understanding and facilitate revision.


Dr Pennington said: "The replication crisis has highlighted significant issues in the field of psychology and beyond and has led to a lack of trust in some research findings. However, it also provides a platform for reform – to improve research practices and the wider culture, with the discipline of psychology paving the way. I am proud that there is now a textbox that provides students and researchers with a handy guide on how to improve transparency and rigor in research through open science practices.


“It is essential for all students to have a fundamental understanding of the challenges posed by the replication crisis and how open science can address them."


The book has received high praise from experts in the field.


Professor Chris Chambers from Cardiff University said: "This book should be on the reading list for all university science degrees and on all library bookshelves. It is concise, accessible, and remarkably interactive, with brilliant use of examples and learning activities.”


Dr Madeleine Pownall from the University of Leeds said: "It is essential reading for anyone who wants to make sense of open science, by covering complex content in an accessible and hands-on way. My hope is that every psychology student will finish their degree with a heavily annotated, well-thumbed copy of this important and timely book.”


Professor Brian Nosek, executive director of the Centre for Open Science at the University of Virginia said: “The last 10 years have been a whirlwind in psychology: identification of faulty research practices, frequent failures to replicate findings, research on how the field could improve, and adoption of new solutions to make research more transparent and credible. It is a lot to take in and it is hard to know where to start.


“I am frequently asked to recommend a reading that provides an overview of what has been learned during the last 10 years and a gateway for getting started with open science. With this book, now I have an answer.”



A Student’s Guide to Open Science: Using the Replication Crisis to Reform Psychology is now available in print and online formats.


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