For over 300 years, the peer review validation method has been used by scholars to assess the quality of their work and research.
Its major purpose has been to validate academic work, increase networking possibilities, and polish the quality of published research. Although this method has received some criticism, it is still the most popularly used method to validate the research.
So, what exactly is this fabled quality check method? And how can it be utilized? Let’s find out.
What Is Peer Review?
Peer review is a quality evaluation process that involves assessing the quality, validity, and, usually, the authenticity of published articles. It serves as a filter for content, sieving out publications with low quality or unfounded research.
The major purpose of this method is to uphold the reputation of protecting the integrity of science and maintaining academic journal brands’ reputation.
What Are the Different Models of Peer Review?
Peer review is an ever-changing quality check technique. There were formally three major models of Peer review but, due to its evolution through the years, four(4) new models have been added to the list. These seven types include:
- The single-blind model – This is when the author is unaware of the identity of the reviewer
- The double-blind model – In this model, neither the reviewer nor author is privy to the identity of the other
- Open peer review – The identities of both the reviewer and author are revealed after or during the review process
- Transparent peer review – In this format, the review report is posted along with the published article
- Collaborative model – This is when two or more reviewers supervise the author’s work
- Post-publication model – This is simply the review of already published articles
- Transferrable peer review – This is the transfer of a rejected manuscript to another reviewer
Dos and Dont’s When Suggesting Peer Reviewers
It is always advisable to distance yourself emotionally and stay unbiased when suggesting peer reviewers for your paper. Here are Dos and Don’ts for suggesting a peer reviewer for your soon to be published article:
- DO suggest potential reviewers who have published papers in your same field of study
- DON’T suggest reviewers because you are assured of their final decision on your article (Read about excluding reviewers)
- DO provide a list of potential reviewers with a variety of criteria like; the difference in the field of study, institutions, and point of view. This is to ensure an outcome with separate opinions and beliefs.
- DON’T suggest experts that you know personally; this is usually a bad idea.
- DO ensure to recommend reviewers who are experts in their field of study
- DON’T fill your list with reviewers of the same country as you need a global perspective for your paper
- DO scour the research field and select scholars who would be willing to review your paper
- DON’T add reviewers who work presently for the target journal as this could be a conflict of interest
- DO be thorough and take as much time as you need when choosing a potential reviewer. Your list could later become a reference list
- DON’T suggest potential reviewers who work in the same institution as you. This causes a conflict of interest
Wrapping It Up
Peer review has received its share of criticism from several factions of the scholastic wing. Certain groups doubt the integrity and credibility of its process. But there is a reason why it is the most utilized method for review, and that is because it assures corroboration from your peers and colleagues. Ensure to follow all guidelines provided by the journal for a smooth review process.
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