On January 14th, 2021, ASAPbio hosted the #PreprintsInThePublicEye: Challenges and Solutions in an Age of Misinformation event. With speakers from the worlds of preprints, academia, and journalism, the event sought to highlight the problem of misinformation and the misrepresentation of research in the context of preprints and COVID-19. We asked, how can we know what to trust, and how can we ensure that research is reported accurately. Common themes at the meeting were peer review initiatives for preprints and the need for guidance for researchers on how to communicate about their research. During the breakout session, we explored the idea of using standard content requirements when tweeting about research, and finally, we called for feedback on the ASAPbio Preprints In The Public Eye Project which has developed a document on best practice for preprint servers, institutions, and researchers on labeling and reporting research in the media as well as resources for journalists.
We’re delighted the meeting generated so much discussion, both during and after the event. The speaker slides can be viewed here.
