An Explanation of Research Excellence Framework (REF): a Step towards Providing a Model for Research Quality Assessment System in Nation's Higher Education

The purpose of this study which has been carried out using the library method was to introduce and explain Research Excellence Framework (REF) that is used in the assessment of the research quality in England’s higher education institutes. This study aimed to direct our researchers’ attention toward doing similar studies with regard to presenting other frameworks and patterns used worldwide and investigation of challenges, profits, and necessities of each pattern’s application in our higher education system. We hoped to initiate a path toward eliminating the loss of research and theories in this field and design an efficient pattern for research quality assessment system in higher education. In Research Excellence Framework (REF), higher education institutes research performance is evaluated and judged by specialized discipline-oriented boards based on criteria such as; research outputs, Impact and research environment. Indicators for research outputs assessment include originality, significance and rigour. Research impact is evaluated based on reach and significance, and research environment is evaluated with regard to vitality and sustainability.