My "Dear Ron" leader received some unfortunate editing. The article implies that I advocate the use of the research assessment exercise as a selective measure for funding of postgraduate research.
Although I do support the principle of some selectivity in funding, I believe that the RAE is not the appropriate method. The RAE is a measure of research output and not research training. A high grade in the RAE may indicate good facilities within the department, but are these facilities available to research students? It may indicate that members of academic staff have an excellent research record, but are they accessible to students when needed and are they adequately trained in supervision?
If there is to be any selectivity in funding it should be on the basis of quality of provision of training and facilities. The Harris report proposes a national code of practice. Funding should only be given to those departments which meet the criteria set out in such a code. This should ensure that all postgraduates are able to study in a high-quality environment.
Jamie Darwen Chair National Postgraduate Committee