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Problem-Solving Before Instruction PS-I: A Protocol for Assessment and Intervention in Students with Different Abilities

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Creativity as an antidote to research becoming too predictable.

Markus Baer¹, Anja Groth², Anders H Lund³

¹Washington University, St. Louis, MO, USA.

The EMBO Journal

|January 25, 2023

Summary

Research leaders should encourage early-career scientists to explore novel "theory-guessing" instead of focusing solely on safe, mainstream research. This approach fosters innovation and scientific advancement among young researchers.

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Area of Science:

Scientific research methodology
Early-career scientist development
Research innovation

Background:

Current research environments often incentivize predictable, mainstream studies.
Young scientists may feel pressured to pursue safe research topics.

Purpose of the Study:

To advocate for a shift in research culture towards encouraging "theory-guessing" among early-career scientists.
To highlight the benefits of exploratory research for scientific progress.

Main Methods:

This is a commentary, not an empirical study.
The authors present a conceptual argument based on their expertise and observations in the scientific community.

Main Results:

The commentary argues that "theory-guessing" can lead to significant scientific breakthroughs.
A culture that supports theoretical exploration is crucial for nurturing scientific talent.

Conclusions:

Research organizations and leaders should actively promote and support "theory-guessing" in young scientists.
Shifting incentives can foster a more innovative and dynamic scientific landscape.