Evaluation of research
Halmstad University regularly evaluates its research activities to ensure high quality and promote continuous development. The evaluations are based on laws, regulations, the European Charter for Researchers, the Coalition for Advancing Research Assessment (CoARA), as well as the University’s own governing documents and quality policy. The evaluations are the responsibility of the Research and Education Board (FUN).
Previous evaluations
Halmstad University has a tradition of conducting self-initiated evaluations of its research with external experts. These evaluations have varied in nature, with the most recent conducted in 2024, covering all research and coproduction at the University. This evaluation was called ARC24 (Assessment of Research and Coproduction 2024) and aimed to strengthen the Schools’ capacity for quality development.
The evaluation process was quality-driven and based on researcher participation. Its implementation encouraged reflection and in-depth analysis of the current state of research and supported the development of both short- and long-term goals.
The University’s first similar evaluation of all research and co-production was conducted in 2013 (ARC13) as part of its then agreement with the Knowledge Foundation regarding a so-called KK-miljö. ARC24 was also part of this agreement, from the perspective of following up on the University’s research development after the conclusion of the KK-miljö. The Knowledge Foundation therefore co-financed ARC24.
Upcoming evaluations – focus evaluations
The University annually follow-up the research activities of its Schools to highlight developments based on basic data and indicators. This follow-up contributes to quality assurance and quality development by identifying changes, opportunities for development, initiatives, and documenting the Schools’ quality work.
The process is based on the data collected and involves dialogue between the Schools and a preparation group. Based on these data, both the preparation group and FUN can identify issues to be addressed in the dialogues. Following the dialogues, a summary is produced. If the summary indicates a need for an in-depth evaluation, FUN, in consultation with the relevant School, decides on the timing and design of a focus evaluation.
FUN is currently reviewing how the focus evaluations will be conducted.
Built-in quality mechanisms in research
The University strives, as far as possible, to utilize research’s inherent quality mechanisms, such as peer review for article publication and research grant applications, within its research evaluation system.
