Research Assessment in Australia: Journal Ranking, Research Classification and Ratings

Abstract

Australia introduced a new research assessment model in 2010 after many years of assessing research through purely quantitative measures. Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA) assesses research quality across the entire higher education sector and involves extensive data collection and highly detailed submissions for universities. This chapter traces the history of research assessment in Australia before discussing three key components of the ERA model - journal ranking, research classification and assessment ratings. It focuses the discussion on how these components of the ERA have impacted the social sciences and how the social sciences have fared under the model. Drawing on national and international commentary and research, this critical analysis of research assessment in Australia seeks to interrogate the current model and inform future developments in research assessment.