Richard Watermeyer, a sociologist at the University of Bristol, UK, states: "Everyone's constantly thinking of research in terms of 'REF-able' outputs, in terms of 'REF-able' impact... Its influence is ubiquitous - you can't escape it." This indicates the pervasive nature of the REF framework in shaping academic priorities and research focus across UK universities.
Critics argue that the demands of an extreme audit culture, such as the REF, impose detrimental effects on academic staff, with some experiencing mental health issues and weakened departmental collegiality. The direct link between research productivity metrics and funding exacerbates this pressure, leading to a troubling environment for researchers.
The REF directly influences the distribution of around £2 billion annually to UK universities, emphasizing how the stakes are amplified for institutions competing for their share of government funding. The results can determine not just the reputation but also the financial viability of departments and programs.
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