Research assessment reform and open science: Growing global initiatives and Japan

Abstract

The conventional scholarly communication system focusing on journal articles has led to the rise of research evaluation based on publication indicators, causing the scientific community to lose its autonomy and to adapt to such metrics. In recent years, there has been a movement to redress this situation. DORA, the flagship of this movement, has evolved its role from advocacy to active campaigning. In Europe, this trend has merged with the open science initiatives, and the Agreement on Reforming Research Assessment is in the process of calling for endorsements. This paper discusses the recent initiatives by DORA and the European movement. It also examines the status of Japan’s use of assessment metrics while introducing the community engagement projects of DORA.