AI Insight
A survey of animal researchers in Switzerland found that nearly half had never heard of preregistration, a practice where study plans are registered before research begins. The study, published in PLOS Biology, systematically mapped researchers' attitudes toward preregistration, identified barriers to adoption, and documented common misconceptions about the practice. The authors also examined what factors might encourage greater uptake of preregistration in animal research.
Why it matters
Preregistration can improve research transparency and reduce publication bias, but its low awareness among animal researchers suggests a significant gap in open science practices. Understanding barriers and misconceptions is essential for developing effective strategies to promote preregistration and ultimately improve the reproducibility and quality of animal research.
Understand the Science
by Pasquale Pellegrini, Ulf Toelch
Nearly half of Swiss animal researchers have never heard of preregistration. A survey published in PLOS Biology maps their attitudes, barriers, and misconceptions, and identifies what it would take to change minds.
Nearly half of Swiss animal researchers have never heard of preregistration. This Primer explores a survey published in PLOS Biology that maps their attitudes, barriers and misconceptionsm, and identifies what it would take to change minds.
Source: The long horizon of animal study preregistration: Attitudes, barriers, and myths