What are the strengths and weaknesses of research review as a scientific inquiry?

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

The principal strength of research review is its contribution to the tracking and advance of scientific knowledge. Research review based on a systematic rather than an idiosyncratic approach is important to maintaining the credibility of conclusions, particularly at a time when research review plays an increasing role in the definition of knowledge. It also has the advantage of being efficient in that it is less expensive, requires less staff, and has a less demanding time requirement. It also provides a more predictable schedule that is less subject to outside factors.

The main disadvantage of research review is the constraints on the materials available for review. Inconsistencies, missing information, and many other quality variations among published reports invariably create problems for the investigator. Assumptions must be made and compromises sought to make use of current studies. Research review on some topics may not be feasible if a limited number of studies have been conducted on these topics.