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Reviewing scientific manuscripts: how much statistical knowledge should a reviewer really know?
1Research Institute for Sport and Exercise Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, 15-21 Webster St., Liverpool, UK. J.P.Morton@ljmu.ac.uk
Advances in Physiology Education
|March 6, 2009
Summary
Statistical reporting guidelines have minimally impacted authors, reviewers, and editors, leading to inconsistencies in manuscript evaluations. Addressing this requires reviewers knowledgeable in novel statistical methods for better publication decisions.
Area of Science:
- Physiology
- Scientific Publishing
- Statistical Reporting
Background:
- The American Physiological Society's 2004 statistical reporting guidelines have shown limited effectiveness.
- A follow-up assessment indicates minimal impact on authors, reviewers, and editors.
Discussion:
- This article presents three cases demonstrating significant discrepancies between author and reviewer statistical reporting practices.
- Inconsistencies among reviewers further complicate adherence to established guidelines.
- Reviewer unfamiliarity with novel statistical methods hinders compliance and manuscript evaluation.
Key Insights:
- Statistical reporting guidelines have not significantly improved practices among authors, reviewers, or editors.
- Discrepancies and inconsistencies in statistical reporting are prevalent in manuscript reviews.
- Reviewer education on novel statistical methods is crucial for consistent and fair evaluation.
Outlook:
- Improving statistical reporting requires a concerted effort to educate reviewers on contemporary statistical methodologies.
- Enhanced reviewer training may lead to more consistent editorial decisions and improved publication quality.
- Future guidelines should consider reviewer training components to ensure effective implementation.
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