Policy on Handling Corrections, Retractions, and Editorial Expressions of Concern

The Journal of Innovations in Education and Social Sciences (JIESS) is committed to maintaining the integrity of the academic record. This policy outlines the procedures for handling corrections, retractions, and editorial expressions of concern to ensure transparency, accountability, and the highest ethical standards in scientific publishing.

1. Introduction

JIESS recognizes that errors can occur in the publishing process, and it is crucial to address these issues promptly and transparently. The journal upholds the ethical principles outlined by the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE) in handling cases of corrections, retractions, and expressions of concern.

2. Types of Article Revisions

1. Corrections: Minor errors that do not significantly affect the conclusions or interpretations of the research. These include typographical errors, small inaccuracies in data or references, and other factual mistakes.
2. Retractions: When an article is found to contain serious errors, such as data fabrication, plagiarism, or irreproducible results that undermine the research’s validity.
3. Editorial Expressions of Concern: When there are concerns regarding the article's integrity or ethical standards but sufficient evidence for retraction is not yet available. This may arise from allegations of misconduct or unresolved issues.

3. Handling Corrections

Corrections will be issued when an error does not alter the conclusions of the article but needs rectification for clarity, accuracy, or transparency.

1. Initiation: Authors, editors, or reviewers can identify the need for a correction.
2. Verification: The editorial team will verify the error. If the error is confirmed, the author will be asked to submit a correction notice.
3. Correction Notice: The correction will be published as a separate notice or as part of the article. The corrected article will display the date of the correction.
4. Visibility: The correction notice will clearly identify the location and nature of the error.

4. Handling Retractions

Retractions are necessary when an article is deemed to contain significant flaws that compromise its integrity. This includes cases of data fabrication, plagiarism, or unethical research practices.

1. Initiation: Retractions may be initiated by authors, editors, or external parties, such as the institution or research ethics committee.
2. Investigation: The editorial board will conduct a thorough investigation, considering the severity of the issue and the evidence available. In cases of suspected misconduct, the journal will follow the guidelines set by COPE and may consult with the relevant institutions.
3. Retraction Notice: If the article is retracted, a retraction notice will be issued, which will include the reasons for retraction and details of the author(s). The retracted article will be marked as "retracted" on the journal’s website and in its metadata.
4. Visibility: The retraction notice will be linked to the original article, and the article will remain available for transparency, marked with the retraction statement.

5. Editorial Expressions of Concern

In cases where there is suspicion of research misconduct or other issues that might affect the article's integrity, but further investigation or evidence is needed, an editorial expression of concern may be issued.

1. Initiation: Concerns may be raised by editors, reviewers, or external parties.
2. Investigation: The editorial board will engage in a preliminary investigation. If appropriate, they may consult with the involved authors, institutions, or ethics committees.
3. Expression of Concern Notice: If the issue cannot be resolved immediately, an editorial expression of concern will be issued. The notice will outline the nature of the concern and indicate that the matter is under review.
4. Outcome: If the issue is resolved, the expression of concern may be retracted or updated with the final resolution. If further investigation reveals serious problems, a retraction may follow.

6. Principles of Fairness and Transparency

In all cases involving corrections, retractions, or expressions of concern:

1. Fairness: Authors will be given the opportunity to respond to allegations or concerns raised.
2. Confidentiality: Investigations will be conducted confidentially, respecting the privacy of all parties involved.
3. Transparency: Actions, such as corrections, retractions, or expressions of concern, will be clearly communicated to readers and stakeholders through the journal’s platform.
4. Documentation: All actions taken will be documented in the journal’s editorial records and will be accessible to the public where appropriate.

7. Timeline for Handling Issues

1. Corrections: These will typically be processed within 1-2 weeks of identification.
2. Retractions and Expressions of Concern: These may take longer, depending on the complexity of the issue and the investigation. The journal will aim to resolve these matters within 4-6 weeks.

8. Impact on Future Submissions

If an author has been involved in serious misconduct (e.g., multiple retractions), the journal reserves the right to refuse future submissions from the author until the matter is resolved.

9. Appeals Process

Authors have the right to appeal any decision related to corrections, retractions, or expressions of concern.

1. Appeal Submission: Authors may submit an appeal within 30 days of receiving the notice.
2. Review of Appeal: The appeal will be reviewed by the editorial board, and a final decision will be made, which will be communicated to the author.

10. Contact Information

For inquiries regarding this policy or specific cases of corrections, retractions, or expressions of concern, please contact the editorial office at editor@jiess.org.uk.
This policy ensures that the Journal of Innovations in Education and Social Sciences (JIESS) handles corrections, retractions, and expressions of concern with transparency, fairness, and in accordance with the highest ethical standards in academic publishing.