The Challenges and Obstacles of Open Science Practices

The presentation examines the Open Science practices, and the challenges associated with it. Open science practices are increasingly influencing the entirety of the research cycle, from the inception of an idea to its dissemination and utilization. The dissemination of open science practices is uneven, as evidenced by secondary survey data. Regional, disciplinary, gender, and institutional differences are among the factors contributing to this unevenness. It is becoming evident that not only are the expected limitations becoming apparent, but also that there are unintended effects. Such shortcomings may even be at odds with the values of open science, including equity and inclusiveness.

A typology of limiting factors is proposed, comprising five extended groups. These include factors related to resources, regulations, institutions, culture and education, and motivation. A more comprehensive analysis of the emerging obstacles to open access and open data has revealed that each practice is characterized by a distinct set of barriers, with resource and regulatory considerations emerging as the predominant factors in both cases. In contrast, institutional factors exert a more pronounced influence on open access practices, whereas motivational factors present a more significant obstacle to open data. The primary challenges appear to be the increasing polarization, the potential risks associated with the disclosure of personal data, and the continuously rising costs for publications in gold open access.

In order to overcome the new obstacles, it is necessary to implement changes to the principles themselves, the scheme of funding, and the reward structures. The most challenging aspect is the necessity to modify the principles of funding and the culture of research in accordance with the values of open science.