APPENDIX 20
Memorandum submitted by the Modern Universities
Research Group
1. The assessment process in 2001 was well
managed and transparent. The manner in which panels operated and
the evidence we have concerning the number of publications actually
read gives us some confidence in the process itself. We continue
to be concerned that aspects of research more closely linked to
the Modern Universities still does not receive adequate recognition
in quality measures.
2. As far as the outcomes of the exercise
are concerned, we wish to emphasise the significant improvements
in research performance across the sector as a whole and within
the Modern University sector in particular. The improvement in
this latter case is based on a significantly lower level of funding
than for the sector as a whole. We would suggest that research
productivity across the sector is part of the investigation. The
Modern Universities research is value for money. This performance
may go unrecognised if 3 rated work is no longer funded.
3. Many aspects of the missions of the Modern
Universities require research underpinning. Our research and development
work clearly will be undermined without the funding to maintain
the research input. Equally, if we are to maintain appropriate
levels in our teaching we must ensure that research and scholarship
are encouraged and funded.
4. We would contend that it is necessary
to identify appropriate funding mechanisms for research in Modern
Universities to ensure that they are able to meet their missions
with appropriate research underpinning and to make the contribution
which the RAE has demonstrated to the national research effort.
17 January 2002
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