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Case Study

Based on the provided context, explain why Dr. Sterling cannot automatically assume that this chapter has undergone the same level of rigorous quality control as a standard peer-reviewed journal article. What should Dr. Sterling check or understand about the chapter's editorial history?

Case context: Dr. Sterling is a psychologist writing a literature review on cognitive development. She finds a chapter in an edited book written by a prominent researcher in the field. The chapter presents new experimental findings. The book's introduction mentions that the editor invited contributors who are experts in cognitive psychology.

Question: Based on the provided context, explain why Dr. Sterling cannot automatically assume that this chapter has undergone the same level of rigorous quality control as a standard peer-reviewed journal article. What should Dr. Sterling check or understand about the chapter's editorial history?

Sample answer: Dr. Sterling cannot assume the chapter has been peer-reviewed because editors of edited books sometimes directly invite scientists to contribute chapters without a formal, rigorous peer-review process. Unlike peer-reviewed journals where review is mandatory, edited book chapters do not guarantee peer review. Dr. Sterling should check if the editor subjected the invited chapter to an independent, formal peer-review process rather than relying solely on the editor's invitation.

Key points:

  • Distinguish between guaranteed peer-review in journals versus non-guaranteed peer-review in edited book chapters.
  • Explain that editors often invite scientists to contribute directly, which can bypass formal peer review.
  • Recognize that Dr. Sterling must evaluate if a rigorous review process was actually applied by the editor.
  • Demonstrate comprehension of the potential lack of independent quality-control for invited book chapters.

Rubric: The response must demonstrate an understanding that edited book chapters do not guarantee peer review. It should explain that editors may directly invite scientists to contribute without formal review, meaning the quality-control process differs from standard peer-reviewed journals. The learner must justify why Dr. Sterling needs to look into whether peer review actually occurred.

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Updated 2026-05-26

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Research Methods in Psychology - 4th American Edition @ KPU

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