Caroline Ball

A robot game advert. The amazing REF robot “always gives the right answer”, with a robot pointing to scores of 1 to 4. To illustrate whether generative AI can improve the REF.

Could generative AI improve the REF?

The task of reading and rating the thousands of outputs submitted to the UK’s Research Excellence Framework is notoriously Herculean. Could AI ease the burden – or would its use undermine the whole point of having REF panels? As Jisc consults on that question, four writers offer their views

By Caroline Ball

5 June

As cuts mount, those used to one-click searching are in for a shock

If ‘big deal’ subscriptions become unaffordable, librarians will need to help students and academics conduct effective searches, says Caroline Ball

By Caroline Ball

23 April

A woman points a gun at a book, symbolising the threat to libraries posed by US anti-terror laws

US anti-terror legislation must not be weaponised against libraries

The terror financing bill’s broad language may require international efforts to defend academic freedom, says Caroline Ball

By Caroline Ball

17 March

Teaching fellowships highlight the value of professional services staff

While academics may be dismissive, the process helps their professional colleagues recognise their own scholarly contributions, say four of them

By Caroline Ball

8 October

The printed page remains essential for scholars and students

As university libraries invest heavily in digital resources, Caroline Ball explains why physical books are still vital for research, teaching and the preservation of knowledge

By Caroline Ball

4 September