SPECIAL ISSUE POLICY

Special issues may be published to commemorate significant events, such as conferences, and special and or thematic interest, among others. Academics interested in serving as guest editors for a special issue within the Journal are encouraged to contact the Editor-in-Chief to obtain the special issue proposal form. Upon approval of the special issue application, the Journal's Special Editions Coordinator will conduct an editorial briefing session with the guest editor(s) to discuss the processes and procedures involved.

The review process for regular submissions, as outlined in the author's guidelines, also applies to special issues. All papers submitted for special issues undergo a double-blind peer review. In collaboration with the Editor-in-Chief, guest editors are responsible for selecting appropriate reviewers. The guest editor(s) oversee(s) the review processes and subsequently recommend a decision to the Editor-in-Chief. The Editor-in-Chief reviews the recommendation, and makes and communicates the final decision. This collaborative approach ensures the high quality and rigorous review standards maintained by the Journal.

Basic Criteria to be Appointed as Guest Editors

Here are ten requirements for individuals interested in serving as special guest editors for a journal:

  • Expertise in the Field: Special guest editors should possess at least a doctoral degree with a strong academic background and expertise in the specific field or theme of the proposed special issue.
  • Publication Record: A demonstrated substantial record of scholarly publications in reputable journals relevant to the subject matter of the proposed special issue.
  • Editorial Experience: Prior editorial experience, such as serving as a reviewer or associate editor, is preferred to ensure familiarity with the scholarly publishing process.
  • Networking Skills: Strong networking skills to facilitate collaboration and engagement with potential contributors, reviewers, and other stakeholders in the academic community.
  • Proposal Submission: Successful completion and submission of a detailed special issue proposal form to the Editor-in-Chief, outlining the scope, objectives, and potential contributors.
  • Clear Vision: A clear and well-defined vision for the special issue, demonstrating the significance and originality of the proposed theme.
  • Communication Skills: Effective communication skills to interact with authors, reviewers, and the editorial team, ensuring a smooth and collaborative editorial process.
  • Adherence to Timelines: Commitment to adhering to established timelines for the editorial process, including manuscript submissions, reviews, and final decision-making.
  • Ethical Standards: Adherence to high ethical standards in research and publishing, ensuring the integrity and credibility of the special issue as recommended by the Journal.
  • Collaboration with Editor-in-Chief: Willingness to collaborate closely with the Editor-in-Chief and the Journal's Special Editions Coordinator throughout the editorial process, including the review and decision-making phases.

Meeting these requirements will help ensure that special guest editors contribute effectively to the success of a special issue and maintain the Journal's standards and quality production.