Social Work

Peer reviewers' dilemmas: a qualitative exploration of decisional conflict in the evaluation of grant applications in the medical humanities and social sciences

G. Vallée-tourangeau, A. Wheelock, et al.

This study, conducted by Gaëlle Vallée-Tourangeau, Ana Wheelock, Tushna Vandrevala, and Priscilla Harries, delves into the complex decision-making process of peer reviewers in the medical humanities and social sciences. Through interviews, it uncovers five critical dilemmas that shape their evaluations, revealing the unique perspectives each reviewer brings to the table.

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Abstract

This study explores the real-time experiences of peer reviewers evaluating grant applications in medical humanities and social sciences. Using the think-aloud approach and Critical Decision Method, 16 reviewers were interviewed while reviewing applications. The analysis revealed five dilemmas: accepting review invitations, relying solely on application information, considering institutional prestige, offering comments outside expertise, and balancing risk-taking with caution. Reviewers' interpretations of 'right' actions were idiosyncratic, influenced by values, preferences, and norms, leading to varied outcomes. The study highlights the thoughtful considerations involved in peer review and cautions against attributing consensus absence to bias, instead emphasizing the diversity reviewers bring to the process.

Publisher

Humanities and Social Sciences Communications

Published On

Mar 04, 2022

Authors

Gaëlle Vallée-Tourangeau, Ana Wheelock, Tushna Vandrevala, Priscilla Harries

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