Education research is assessed in a wide range of contexts and for a wide range of purposes, from
funding to publication decisions. Each assessment is based on operational criteria that depend largely on
its context, although a common core of generic concerns may be identified. When made explicit, these
criteria are likely to influence the preparation of research proposals, research reports, and publication
proposals. However, current knowledge of the criteria used by different organisations in their assessment
of education research is patchy. The review reported here was an “audit” of the criteria used in the
assessment of education research across the UK.