Special Issue Guidelines
Last updated: 2022-04-30
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Special Issues in academic Journals are collections of articles that are focused on a particular topic or theme. These issues are usually curated by guest editors who are experts in the field, and they aim to provide a comprehensive and in-depth exploration of the chosen topic.
The articles included in Special Issues are typically original research or review articles that have been subjected to the same rigorous peer-review process as regular articles in the Journal. However, they are grouped together and published as a collection to highlight the importance and relevance of the topic.
Special Issues are often used to bring attention to emerging areas of research or to showcase the work of a particular research group or community. They can also provide a platform for interdisciplinary collaborations, bringing together researchers from different fields to address a common problem or question.
For authors, publishing in a Special Issue can be an excellent opportunity to showcase their work to a wider audience and to contribute to a focused and coherent body of knowledge on a particular topic. For readers, special issues provide a convenient and accessible way to stay up-to-date on the latest research and trends in a specific field.
Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue
Focused Attention on a Specific Topic
Special Issues provide an opportunity to concentrate on a particular theme or topic in a comprehensive manner, bringing together articles that address different aspects of the same subject.
Increased Citations
Articles published in Special Issues often receive higher citations than regular articles because they are more likely to be read and cited by other researchers interested in the topic.
Increased Visibility
By publishing in a special issue, authors can reach a wider audience interested in the specific topic, including scholars, practitioners, and policymakers. This can lead to increased visibility for their research and potential collaborations.
Recognition and Prestige
Being invited to contribute to a Special Issue can be a recognition of a researcher's expertise in a particular area, and publishing in a special issue can enhance their reputation in the field.
Networking Opportunities
Special Issues can bring together scholars from different disciplines, creating opportunities for interdisciplinary collaborations and fostering new research directions.
Enhanced Knowledge
Readers benefit from Special Issues as they offer a comprehensive and updated perspective on a specific topic, saving time in their search for relevant and quality research on the subject.
Making Special Issue Proposal
Editorial Board of Special Issue
Special Issues are led by a single Lead Guest Editor or a team of 2 - 5 Guest Editors. Guest Editors are integral to the success of a Special Issue. Special Issues of STM will also follow the peer review process under the guidelines of the Editorial Policy. The Guest Editor(s) of the issue will have all the right to select or reject the submitted manuscript. Guest Editors are also required to convey the complete table of contents and the outline of the issue as well as the names and designations of contributing authors before the proposal is tentatively accepted (final acceptance being dependent on the review process). Guest Editors should inform the authors of the proposed schedule for the Special/regular Issue and if the articles are not submitted in time to the publisher, then they may be rejected.
What Makes You A Guest Editor?
They are responsible for managing the papers and for the quality of the content. Every paper in the issue must maintain the quality standards of the Journal. Research papers must be scientifically excellent, and all content must be novel and interesting to the general readership.
Eligibility
Responsibilities
Benefits
Selection of Topic
Selecting a topic for a Special Issue in an academic Journal is an important and often challenging task. Here are some tips for selecting a strong and relevant topic:
Support for Guest Editors
If you are a guest editor, be sure to familiarize yourself with the support offered by the journal and communicate with the editorial team throughout the process. This can help ensure that the Special Issue meets the journal's standards and is a success for both the Journal and the guest editor.
Become A Guest Editor
As a guest editor, we understand that there are many responsibilities to consider. For this reason, we have created a comprehensive guide to walk you through the essential aspects of the role and what to anticipate during the process of editing a Special Issue. You can count on the support and guidance of the Publisher, Content Acquisition Specialist, and/or Journal Manager throughout the process. If you have any inquiries while serving as a guest editor, please direct them to the appropriate publishing contact. Our Researcher Support Center is also available for technical support and role/system-based inquiries.
By considering these points before beginning the review process, you can ensure that you are well-prepared to provide a thorough, objective, and constructive review that meets the standards of the Journal.
Guest Editor's Support
To receive further assistance on joining as a Guest Editor or Proposing Special Issue Topics, please contact us via email at [email protected] or submit your query through our online portal.
Click here for FAQs related to Special Issues.