DFG Publishes E-Learning Course

Every individual is biased in different ways and to varying degrees. Even in research, which per se strives for facts and evidence, bias cannot be ruled out. However, funding decisions influenced by prejudices run counter to the merit-based selection, are not purely based on scientific criteria and can be discriminatory. Accordingly, funding decisions should be made by the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG, German Research Foundation) on the basis of objective criteria. At the same time, unavoidable delays in an applicant’s research career should be taken into account appropriately in their favour (where applicable). A new DFG e-learning course(externer Link) (currently only available in German) provides training on this topic and thus complements the short film(externer Link) produced last year.

The modular course is primarily aimed at DFG reviewers and committee members who assess the best projects in a competitive process. However, the content and corresponding recommendations for action are also applicable to other forms of scientific evaluation and decision-making, such as peer review, examinations, appointment procedures and recruitment processes. As such, participation in the course is open and desirable for anyone interested in mitigating bias.

The course takes approximately 45 minutes to complete. In addition to the introduction and conclusion, it is divided into the following modules, which can also be completed individually: 

• Definition of bias
• Examples of bias and its impact on scientific evaluation and decision-making processes
• Mitigating bias in scientific evaluation and decision-making processes

In addition to information, the modules contain real-world examples, exercises and specific recommendations for action. The e-learning course concludes with additional materials and literature. The course was created with the support of academic experts and reflects the current state of research. An English version is in preparation and will also be published shortly.

The DFG cordially invites everyone interested to participate!

Further Information 

Click here(externer Link) to go directly to the e-learning course (currently only available in German); 
short link: www.dfg.de/bias/e-learning(externer Link). 

More information and materials on the topic of “bias” at www.dfg.de/bias/en(interner Link) 

5-minute film “Mitigating Bias in Scientific Evaluation and Decision-Making Processes(externer Link)”

DFG form 10.60(interner Link) “Guideline for Mitigating Bias in Scientific Evaluation and Decision-Making Processes”